The Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate renewal and fresh beginnings. In America, this holiday has become an important and exciting cultural tradition. Lively illustrations and informative text teach readers about the history and pastimes associated with the Chinese New Year, as well as what they can do to commemorate the day. Additional features to aid comprehension include activities and poetry, informative sidebars, a table of contents, a phonetic glossary, sources for further research, an index, and an introduction to the author and illustrator.

Gung hay fat choy! -- New year in a new land -- When is Chinese New Year? -- Why a dragon? -- Preparing the heart -- Preparing the home -- The family comes together -- Fifteen days of joy -- Animals of the Chinese calendar -- Joining in the spirit of Chinese New Year -- Making nian gao -- Making a circle snake.