SPARKLES FOR SUNNY

A young girl of Chinese descent finds a way to stand out at the Lunar New Year parade.

The Lao family is getting ready to celebrate the upcoming holiday. Together, they make food, prepare lucky gifts, and create decorations. And they bring out the special clothes they’ll wear at the parade, including three matching qipáo dresses, one for each Lao sister. Sunny, the youngest, loves all her family’s traditions, but she doesn’t love her qipáo. Originally made for her oldest sister, Eva, the garment is decorated with a dragon, Eva’s zodiac sign. Handed down to her middle sister, Aria, it’s red, Aria’s favorite color. Now it belongs to Sunny, but nothing about the dress says “Sunny” at all. Besides, it makes her look exactly like her sisters. Sunny wistfully dreams of golden, sparkly, unconventional qipáos that would be entirely her. Alas, a new dress is out of the question. One of the Lao family’s golden rules is “Never waste anything!” and the three sisters always match. Any young reader with older siblings will relate to Sunny’s struggle with her hand-me-down dress, and her creative solution demonstrates how individual expression can be compatible with family expectations and traditions. Phuong’s soft, vibrant illustrations capture the festive details of the new year and Sunny’s eager mind and forceful will. Mandarin Chinese phrases are transliterated and translated throughout.

A charming story about honoring traditions while staying true to oneself.