Dragon Dance: A Chinese New Year Lift the Flap Book

By Joan Holub; illustrated by Benrei Hwang

For parents of 2-6 year olds who are looking for a colorful and comprehensive look at the ancient cultural traditions surrounding the Chinese New Year binding family celebrations at the heart of the festival, here is a book that explains many of them for the younger group, using an appealing, hands on approach. Kids love to lift the flaps and discover.

In Dragon Dance, there’s lots for everyone to do in the preparation for the welcoming of the New Year whose date is determined by the Chinese lunar calendar and much to enjoy during the ensuing festive celebrations. Whether it involves shopping for fresh flowers at an outdoor market, eating New Year dinner with the family, or receiving the much awaited traditional red envelopes containing money from ones parents, grandparents or close relatives, family is the focus of the fun.  I’ve read that some children awaken to find under their pillows red envelopes the contents of which, may or may not reflect how good they’ve been during the previous year. And naturally, the best of course is saved for last – watching the New Year parade.

For the smallest of celebrants, this may just be the perfect introduction to 2012’s Year of the Dragon.