"At Uncle Lee's shop, eels and bass swoosh and gurgle.
I scoop up icy shrimp. My fingers tingle.
Laolao knows everyone - "
Jasmine tea is steeping when a young child and her grandmother prepare to spend the day together. Millie is quick to offer a suggestion when Laolao asks what they should do; they should eat dumplings. Before they can make them, they must head to Chinatown where they will find what they need to get right to work.
The street is crowded and full of wonder as they make their way from one vendor to the next. Auntie Lim has the garlic chives they need; she also offers lychees, much to Millie's delight. Next they stop at Uncle Lu's shop for shrimp, before visiting Granpa Gu, Grandma Sun and Big Sister Chau. Laolao knows everyone! Once back at home, they work together to form the dumplings. Laolao is very skilled; her granddaughter, a beginner. Still, they all have a most delicious taste.
Throughout the summer, the two have daily visits. Millie notices that Laolao is moving more slowly. Once back from shopping, Laolao shares all of her recipes. Dumplings remain the favorite. When Laolao is too tired to make dumplings anymore, they must stop making them. Laolao is failing, Millie is too young to take on the task.
Winter's arrival has everyone, including Laolao, wishing for dumplings again. Mama, Papi and Millie head back to Chinatown where everyone now greets Laolao's granddaughter as they once welcomed her. They also send home all of the ingredients and include special gifts for the woman they miss so much. With fresh dumplings in hand, they are off to Laolao's home to share them as she has always done with them.
Digital artwork fills the pages with realistic scenes that are detailed to show the spirit of family and community. A family recipe for dumplings is appended.
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