Long-Long's New Year - by Catherine Gower (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

In this beautifully illustrated multicultural children's book, a little Chinese boy named Long-Long accompanies his grandfather into the city to sell cabbages in order to buy food and decorations for the New Year. Selling cabbages is harder than Long-Long expects, and he encounters many adventures before he finds a way to help his grandfather, and earn New Year's treats for his mother and little cousin.

The stunning, authentic illustrations by a talented Chinese artist capture the look of everyday life in rural China. Combined with the charming story of Long-Long's trip to the city, they offer a unique introduction to Chinese culture. It includes a glossary of Chinese terms.

Review Quotes

"...beautifully illustrated picture book about a little Chinese boy named Long-Long, who accompanies his grandfather into the city to sell cabbages in order to buy food and decorations for the New Year. Selling cabbages is harder than Long-Long expects, and he encounters many adventures before he finds a way to help his grandfather, and earn New Year's treats for his mother and little cousin." --Kid World Citizen

"The engaging illustrations use graceful lines and bright color washes to depict a bustling Chinese village infused with holiday excitement." —, School Library Journal

About the Author

Catherine Gower lived and worked in China from 1997 to 1999, teaching English and learning Mandarin and Chinese calligraphy. She is now an editor in the English Language Teaching division of Oxford University Press. This is her first children's book.

He Zhihong was born in China in 1970 and graduated from the Beijing Academy of Fine Arts, where she studied traditional Chinese painting. She paints on both silk and rice paper. He Zhihong lives in Paris and teaches Chinese calligraphy in primary school.