Commemorating foods that cement generational bonds is a popular narrative in children's books. Writer and journalist Dane Liu (Friends Are Friends, Forever), born in China and raised in the U.S. and Canada, augments that familiarity with a rare poignancy in Laolao's Dumplings, a picture book that may gently help young readers face the loss of an older loved one. Korean American artist ShinYeon Moon's exquisitely detailed, culturally empathic illustrations add sensitivity and depth.
For young Millie, a visit to Laolao's home often means making dumplings, which necessitates a bountiful trip into Chinatown for the freshest ingredients--as well as visiting all the friendly shopowner aunties and uncles. By the following fall, however, Laolao is "too tired to make dumplings"; snuggling is best. By winter, Millie and her parents deliver Laolao's meals... including Millie's version of Laolao's delectable dumplings.
Moon's art enhances Liu's text with additional elements that perhaps only pictures can relay without awkward over-explication. The front endpapers are filled with colorful platters of various dumplings; the back endpapers show enjoyed, emptied plates. Before the story begins, Moon (Shiny Happy People) reveals Millie's mixed-race background and an author's note tells non-Mandarin speakers that "Laolao" specifically means "maternal grandmother." Millie and Laolao wend through the diverse crowds and welcoming stores in the buoyant hustle bustle of Chinatown, where they test fresh chives, and sample lychees and icy shrimp. With hints of such toothsome fare, Liu must--of course--append her "no longer secret" dumpling recipe. Author and artist gorgeously celebrate the nurturing power of sharing food and family. --Terry Hong