Begin with Pacy's lucky year
The Year of the Dog introduces Pacy's family, her friendship with Melody, and her search for the talent that helps her understand herself.
Book Series · 3 Books
Pacy Lin Books
In order from The Year of the Dog to Dumpling Days.
Three warm, illustrated novels follow Pacy Lin through family stories, Chinese American traditions, changing friendships, creative ambitions, and her first trip to Taiwan.
Reviewed by the Bookroo Editors Updated
Reading order
How to Read the Pacy Lin Books
Read The Year of the Dog, The Year of the Rat, and Dumpling Days in publication order. The first two follow consecutive Chinese zodiac years, while the third sends the same family to Taiwan and builds on Pacy's growing identity as a writer and artist.
Sources: Grace Lin's official explanation of the three Pacy books, The author's official first-book page, The author's official Dumpling Days page.
For parents
What Parents Should Know
The mostly gentle stories include a best friend's move, feeling left out, disappointment, teasing, early crushes, homesickness, and language barriers. Pacy also encounters racist or culturally insensitive comments and wrestles with whether she feels Chinese, American, or both. These moments invite conversations about belonging, prejudice, family stories, and the difference between curiosity and assumptions.
Where to start
Where Should My Child Start?
Where the story begins
First Book in the Series
Sale price
$759
Book #1 · Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2005
The Year of the Dog
By Grace Lin
A young Taiwanese-American girl navigates her identity and family traditions while trying to find her place in the world.
160 pages· 23,424 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Pacy embarks on a journey of self-discovery during the Chinese Year of the Dog. Her mother predicts a year of friendship, family, and finding herself. As Pacy navigates the ups and downs of talent searches and new friendships, she learns why this year is truly special. Will she uncover her hidden talents and embrace her identity? This heartfelt tale explores universal themes of belonging and self-discovery, promising a delightful read for young adventurers.
In reading order
Pacy Lin Series
3 books · Published 2005–2012
#1
Sale price
$759
The Year of the Dog
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2005
A young Taiwanese-American girl navigates her identity and family traditions while trying to find her place in the world.
#2
Sale price
$759
The Year of the Rat
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2008
Pacy faces change, dreams, and prejudice in the Year of the Rat.
#3
Sale price
$759
Dumpling Days
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2012
A trip to Taiwan challenges Pacy's identity and art skills.
Good to know
Common Questions
How many books are in the Pacy Lin series?
There are 3 books in the Pacy Lin series. It began with The Year of the Dog in 2005, and the newest book, Dumpling Days, was published in 2012.
What order should you read the Pacy Lin books in?
Start with The Year of the Dog and follow the series order — the books above are numbered #1 through #3.
What ages are the Pacy Lin books best for?
The series is best for ages 8–12, based on the age ranges of the individual books.
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