The Year of the Dog

Action-packed fantasy may get all the hype, but many kids prefer stories closer to home. They'd rather read about themselves and their friends, their schools and neighborhoods. Be sure to introduce them to Grace. Starting with her family's celebration of the Chinese New Year, Grace shares the ups and downs of the Year of the Dog, in which friends and talents play prominent roles. Grace's accounts of science fairs, school plays and making friends are intertwined with her mom's own tales of fitting in, bad haircuts and greedy brothers. And, together with her mom, digging in the garden and sharing stories, Grace comes upon her true talent. An often funny, always real look at a Taiwanese American family, Grace's story is based on the author's own childhood. A chapter book perfect for kids in grades 2 through 5. (Look for a sequel, The Year of the Rat, in 2008.)