About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling to find their one special thing or feels like they are caught between two different worlds. It is an ideal choice for the child who feels average or lacks confidence in their unique talents. The story follows Pacy, a young Taiwanese American girl, as she navigates a year defined by the Chinese zodiac. Through family stories, school projects, and a budding friendship, she learns that discovery is a journey rather than a destination. This gentle chapter book explores themes of cultural identity, the value of perseverance, and the beauty of family heritage. It is perfectly suited for children ages 8 to 12 who are beginning to ask deeper questions about who they are and where they fit in. Parents will appreciate the way it normalizes the feeling of being different while celebrating the small, everyday moments that build a sense of self-worth.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book directly but gently addresses instances of 'othering'. For example, Pacy is told she cannot play Dorothy in a school play because Dorothy is not Chinese. This incident highlights the experience of racial exclusion, which may be upsetting for some children. The resolution shows Pacy feeling the sting of the comment, but finding empowerment through her own creative outlets. The tone is secular with cultural spiritual elements (zodiac, ancestors).
