Amanda Wood

With an adorable red panda, this little book gives young listeners a glimpse into the celebrations surrounding the Chinese New Year.

This is the latest in a series of books, which highlights cute animals as they celebrate a holiday in animal style. This one centers around a little red panda as it prepares and celebrates the Chinese New Year with the other animals around it. The setting stays outdoors in the nature, bringing a hint of that realistic side into play. At the same time, The show more animals partake in human traditions: for example, the red panda shares noodles with another animal. It's a gentle way to mix animal habitats with cultural goodness.

The illustrations are unique and add a warming touch. The little red panda is presented in a photo form, allowing readers to know exactly what the red panda looks like and how it moves. The other animals, however, are artistically created in watercolor with less details. The background, then, stays light and carries impressions of the habitat without heading into busy exactness. The combination is interesting, educational, and eye-catching.

A flowing text accompanies each scene to make clear what is happening. This is kept short to fit nicely to the mid and upper end of the age group. It adds to the sense of warmth surrounding the fun of celebrating with others; presents the traditions in a simple, understandable way; and holds a sense of calm to make it a read for quieter moments as well. show less