One of the most important holidays throughout China, Taiwan and Hong Kong (as well as in various North American communities) is the Chinese New Year, which this year falls on February 10 and begins the “Year of the Snake”.

Celebrated with many days of festivities which include fireworks, parades, dancing, special foods and presents for children, the holiday is a time for families to reunite. It concludes with the traditional Lantern Festival.

The Chinese New Year is a fascinating holiday in part because of the rituals, superstitions and taboos associated with it. For example, people do not houseclean or bathe on New Year’s Day – at least, in traditional households - for fear of washing away the wealth that the gods may have left for the household. (On the other hand, it is the only time of year when gambling isn’t frowned upon!)

This book brings the lights and exuberance of this festival alive for young readers with its descriptive text and its many colourful photographs. One of the titles in the Festivals and Faiths series, it explains the origins, beliefs and the practices associated with the holiday in a way that is meaningful for children.

Note: Children can find more information on the holidays and culture of this intriguing country in books such as Mary Colson’s Chinese Culture and Lynn Peppas’ Cultural Traditions in China, also at the Stratford Public Library.