Ruby's Chinese New Year
What’s inside...
In this picture book celebrating Chinese New Year, animals from the Chinese zodiac help a little girl named Ruby deliver a special card to her grandmother. Along the way, Ruby meets each of the twelve zodiac animals, including clever Rat, strong Ox, and cautious Rabbit. The picture book includes additional information about the animals of the Chinese zodiac.
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Ruby
Discussion points
What animals did Ruby meet on her journey to visit her grandmother? How do you think each animal helped her?
Which part of the Chinese New Year celebrations described in the book did you find most interesting or fun?
How do you think Ruby felt when she was preparing the special card for her grandmother? Have you ever made something special for someone?
What does the story teach us about the importance of family and traditions?
Can you think of a tradition in our family that is similar to the Chinese New Year celebration?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to describe their favorite illustrations in the book, fostering a deeper connection to the visual storytelling.
Discuss the significance of each animal in the Chinese zodiac and explore together what animal represents the year your child was born.
While reading, emphasize the cultural aspects and traditions of the Chinese New Year to cultivate appreciation and curiosity about different cultures.
Use Ruby's journey to her grandmother’s house as a way to discuss the importance of family connections and the lengths we go to show our love.
After reading, consider creating a special card or craft together inspired by the book, reinforcing the theme of expressing love through personal efforts.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Importance of Family Traditions
Explanation: Ruby's journey to deliver a special card to her grandmother showcases the significance of maintaining and respecting family traditions during Chinese New Year.
Real-World Application: Children can participate in their family's traditional celebrations or learn about the traditions of others to foster appreciation and cultural awareness.
Example Lesson: Creativity and Problem Solving
Explanation: Throughout the story, Ruby encounters various obstacles but creatively uses her resources to solve problems, demonstrating adaptability and resourcefulness.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to think creatively in overcoming difficulties they face in school or play, enhancing their problem-solving skills.
Example Lesson: Value of Kindness and Sharing
Explanation: Ruby's interactions with the animals throughout her journey highlight the themes of kindness, cooperation, and sharing as they help each other to achieve a common goal.
Real-World Application: Teaches children to cooperate and share with their peers during group activities or playtime, promoting harmonious social interactions.
Example Lesson: Perseverance in Pursuit of Goals
Explanation: Despite the challenges Ruby faces, she persists in her goal to deliver the special card to her grandmother, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and determination.
Real-World Application: Motivates children to persist in their academic or personal pursuits, even when faced with difficulties, building resilience and a strong work ethic.