The Tray of Togetherness, written and illustrated by Flo Leung. Owlkids, 2022. $19.95 ages 3 and up

 

"And there are so many delicious 
New Year wishes ... 

Candied coconut 
for strong family ties

Watermelon seeds 
for a large family

Candied kumquats 
for wealth 

Peanuts 
for a long life 

Candied lotus root 
for abundance 
year after year 

Candies 
for a sweet life"

Looking out the window to discover Grandma downstairs ups the excitement for the young girl who shares this story about celebrating the Lunar New Year at a party for family, friends and neighbors. Her grandmother has come to join in the festivities. There is much work yet to be done. 

There will be games, music and dancing, and a Tray of Togetherness filled with 'lucky sweets' to be shared with all guests. First, a trip to the market is needed to purchase the treats that will fill the eight sections of the tray itself. She tells readers that eight is a lucky number meant to bring much happiness to all. 

Each of the eight treats is specially chosen. They are purchased, and then consumed for their meaning in making for a happy life. Each is used for wish-making and for passing on those wishes to others. As they make their way home, many ways are shown to pass along sweets to others. Finally, the party is on and all those invited have come to enjoy the happy New Year! 

The telling is simple and filled with cheer. The illustrations bring a happy group together to celebrate in style. It's a delight for the senses. Ms. Leung's endnote presents a further explanation for this much-loved family tradition.

Mark your calendar for January 22 ... this year's Lunar New Year.