Books About Chinese Americans

The Best Chinese Americans Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about chinese americans? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 9 Favorite Books About Chinese Americans

The Secret Battle of Evan Pao
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2022

The Secret Battle of Evan Pao

By Wendy Wan-Long Shang

Evan Pao faces prejudice and secrets in a town clinging to its past.

272 pages· 48,318 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 983 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Evan Pao seeks a fresh start in Haddington, Virginia, escaping his father's past. As a Chinese American, he faces hostility from Brady Griggs and struggles to fit in. When Evan's attempt to join the school's Civil War celebration sparks violence, he must choose between retaliation and a new path. Can Evan find his place in a town steeped in tradition, or will he be consumed by its prejudices? His journey reveals the hidden battles of identity and belonging, challenging him to shape his own future amidst the shadows of history.
The Way Home Looks Now
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2015

The Way Home Looks Now

By Wendy Wan-Long Shang

A boy's baseball dreams clash with family grief. Can the game heal their broken bonds?

272 pages· 49,404 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 497 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Twelve-year-old Peter Lee faces a family torn apart by tragedy. His mother is lost in grief, and his father, now the Little League coach, is distant. Peter hopes joining the team will rekindle their shared love for baseball and mend their fractured family. But with his father's strict coaching methods causing tension, Peter wonders if the sport can truly bring them together. Will baseball be the key to healing, or will it drive them further apart? Discover if the game they cherish can lead them back home.
Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same!
Sale price
$474
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2010

Ling & Ting: Not Exactly the Same!

By Grace Lin · Ling & Ting series

Identical twins discover their unique differences through shared adventures.

Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor (2011)CALA Best Book Award (Chinese American Librarians Association) (2010)
48 pages· 1,380 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud
3.9 Goodreads · 2,055 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Ling and Ting are identical twins who share everything from brown eyes to pink cheeks. Yet, as they navigate making dumplings, haircuts, and magic tricks, they uncover surprising differences. How can two people so alike be so different? Join their delightful journey to find out.
Henry and the Kite Dragon
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2004

Henry and the Kite Dragon

By Bruce Edward Hall, William Low (Illustrator)

Kids from two rival neighborhoods clash over homemade kites until they finally come face to face.

40 pages· 1,971 words· Est. 16 min read-aloud
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In 1920s New York, kids from Chinatown stay out of the park when the kids from Little Italy are there. Henry loves helping his friend Grandfather Chin build kites and fly them over the neighborhood, but Tony Guglione and his friends keep throwing rocks and wrecking them. When Henry and his friends decide enough is enough, the two groups finally come face to face, in a story based on true events.
I Am Golden
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2022

I Am Golden

By Eva Chen, Sophie Diao (Illustrator)

A child discovers beauty and strength in their unique heritage and identity.

40 pages
4.3 Goodreads · 1,248 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Mei gazes into the mirror, questioning what she sees. Through a journey of self-discovery, she learns to embrace her Chinese American identity, finding beauty in her eyes, hair, and skin. As Mei navigates her world, she becomes a bridge between cultures, celebrating her heritage with pride. This lyrical tale invites readers to explore the warmth and joy of self-love, encouraging children to see themselves as golden. Will Mei's journey inspire others to find power in their differences? Discover a story that celebrates identity and the immigrant experience with vibrant illustrations and heartfelt prose.
Stocking Up for the Storm
Sale price
$2152
Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2019

Stocking Up for the Storm

By Fran Manushkin, Laura Zarrin (Illustrator) · Katie Woo's Neighborhood series

A young girl prepares for a big storm with her family and checks in with her friends as they all wait for it to pass.

27 pages· 440 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 14 ratings
$22.65Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: As a storm threatens, Katie and her family rush to Mr. Nelson's store to gather essentials. Amidst the chaos, Katie discovers the art of smart shopping. Will they secure enough supplies, or will the storm leave them unprepared? Join Katie on this unexpected journey of learning and survival.
Every Day's an Adventure
Sale price
$470
Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2014

Every Day's an Adventure

By Fran Manushkin, Tammie Lyon (Illustrator) · Katie Woo series

Join a young adventurer as she turns everyday experiences into exciting escapades.

96 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 60 ratings
$4.95Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Katie Woo embraces every new experience with enthusiasm, from her first airplane ride to unexpected adventures. Will she find joy in each challenge, or will surprises await? Discover the fun!
Katie Woo, Don't Be Blue
Sale price
$470
Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2013

Katie Woo, Don't Be Blue

By Fran Manushkin, Tammie Lyon (Illustrator) · Katie Woo series

Katie faces fears and sadness, but support helps her find joy again.

96 pages
3.9 Goodreads · 71 ratings
$4.95Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Katie Woo encounters challenges like storms and illness that leave her feeling scared and sad. Yet, with the unwavering support of her friends and family, she learns to navigate these tough days. Will Katie discover the strength to overcome her fears and find happiness again? Join her journey of resilience and friendship, where every cloud has a silver lining.
Courage on Ice
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2019

Courage on Ice

By Jake Maddox, Veeda Bybee · Jake Maddox JV series

A skater's fall tests her resolve amid cultural ridicule.

89 pages· 10,407 words· Est. 1 hour read
3.8 Goodreads · 11 ratings
$5.95Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Thirteen-year-old Eva Chen faces a daunting recovery after a fall leaves her with a concussion. As she grapples with missing practice and the pressure of an upcoming family showcase, Eva overhears fellow skaters mocking her choice of a Mandarin song, a tribute to her heritage. Can Eva overcome her injury and the sting of prejudice to reclaim her place on the ice? Her journey is one of resilience and cultural pride, where the stakes are not just about skating, but about embracing her identity.
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