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Common Knowledge

Birthdate: 1974
Gender: female
Nationality: USA
Birthplace: New Hartford, New York, USA
Places of residence: Somerville, Massachusetts, USA
Florence, Massachusetts, USA
Education: Rhode Island School of Design
Occupations: children's book author
children's book illustrator
Organizations: New England Public Radio
Awards and honors: Champion of Change for Asian American and Pacific Islander Art and Storytelling (2016)
Short biography: From her official website (www.gracelin.com):
Grace Lin is the author and illustrator of more than a dozen picture books, including THE UGLY VEGETABLES and DIM SUM FOR EVERYONE! Grace's first children's novel THE YEAR OF THE DOG was released with glowing praise. While most of Grace's books are about the Asian-American experience, she believes, "Books erase bias, they make the uncommon everyday, and the mundane exotic. A book makes all cultures universal." See more about Grace and her work at www.gracelin.com.

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Reviews

A Big Mooncake for Little Star (Caldecott Honor Book) by Grace Lin

Summary: In this beautifully illustrated story, "Little Star" helps her mother bake a giant mooncake and is told not to eat it. But she sneaks bites at night, and as the mooncake disappears, it mirrors the phases of the moon. The book weaves a charming story with a deeper message about responsibility, curiosity, and cultural traditions. It also introduces a simple, imaginative way to explain the moon’s phases. This book is educational, yet intriguing and entertaining to young readers.
Comments: The story’s connection to cultural traditions and its enchanting artwork makes this book both educational and magical. It introduces children to a unique way of thinking about the moon’s phases while also discussing responsibility and curiosity in a non-judgmental way. Including this book in the classroom opens the door to learning about Asian culture and exploring science concepts through storytelling, making it both engaging and meaningful. I think this book would be relatable to some students and educational and perspective informative to others. I would most definitely add this book to my future classroom. The moon is a concept that children should understand and develop their own ideas about starting at a young age.… (more)

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AnnikaShepp | 60 other reviews | Dec 12, 2024 |

A Big Mooncake for Little Star (Caldecott Honor Book) by Grace Lin

This book tells the story of Little Star, who watches her mother hang the moon in the sky. The moon looks like a delicious mooncake, and Little Star can’t resist sneaking a bite. This charming story weaves in elements of Chinese myths, folktales, and culture while also serving as a fun introduction to moon phases. With its stunning illustrations and rich cultural connections, it’s a wonderful addition to any classroom.

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mrogers23 | 60 other reviews | Dec 5, 2024 |