BABY COUSIN'S BIG DAY
From the Yoomi, Friends, and Family series
by Aram Kim ; illustrated by Aram Kim
Yoomi, a young black-and-white cat of Korean descent, attends her cousin Dasom’s birthday celebration.
In Korean culture, a baby’s first birthday party is a special occasion. As part of the doljabi ceremony, symbolic items are placed on a table in front of the 1-year-old; the first object touched represents the little one’s possible future. Yarn indicates long life, while a ball forecasts an athletic future. An aspiring artist might select a paintbrush, as Yoomi did at her doljabi. With numerous items on display, family and friends wait in anticipation for what will attract the youngster’s attention. The hustle and bustle of the day can be overwhelming, however, and Dasom (an adorable puppy with a topknot) suddenly bursts into tears. No one knows why—except Yoomi. Showing a concern for Dasom’s fortune throughout the story, Yoomi sees the little one’s needs beyond the ritual, and her empathy leads to a touching moment for the whole family. For this latest in the series, Kim once more relies on vibrant, carefully composed cartoons. Her all-animal cast is a cheery group; background details will reward observant viewers (New Yorkers will recognize the setting as Queens). The author/illustrator offers another insightful window into Korean culture while continuing to flesh out Yoomi—a winsome and caring protagonist—and her world.
Sweetly festive fun.
(glossary, more information on doljabi) (Picture book. 3-8)