100 days A story of sisterhood

Anya loves spending time with her parents. She has special days like only-wear-yellow days with Mama and playground days with Papa. However, things change drastically with the arrival of a new baby sister, Hana, who needs a lot of their parents' time and attention. Mama becomes increasingly busy as they approach Hana's 100th day, a traditional milestone in Chinese culture. When the special day comes, their home is filled with visitors, but Anya feels left out. After finding her aunt Vee in the kitchen making ang ku kueh (tortoise-shaped treats filled with mung bean), Anya is surprised to learn that her aunt and mom didn't always get along, because Anya had thought they'd always been best friends. Sometimes love takes time, even between sisters. This gentle message is warmly reinforced by soft, colorful digital illustrations, which vividly capture facial expressions. Chinese culture is further explored in an author's note; back matter also includes information on the hundredth-day customs and a recipe for ang ku kueh. A heartfelt story incorporating authentic cultural elements with a relatable message.

Anya and Mama have a very special relationship…until a new baby sister arrives. Anya loves spending time with her mother. They build forts, snuggle up and read stories, and visit Anya's favorite aunt, Vee. But one day, Anya's parents bring home her new sibling, Hana. Spot-art vignettes depict Anya becoming increasingly sad and angry. Once in a while, Anya does feel a "tug on her heart, and [wonders] if that might be love," but it quickly disappears once Mama focuses her attention on Hana. As weeks pass, everyone becomes even busier as they plan Hana's 100th day party--a common milestone in Chinese culture. On the big day, Anya feels left out and finds Aunt Vee in the kitchen making ang ku kueh, and while the two form the turtle-shaped sweet treats together, Aunt Vee tells Anya about how she and Anya's mama fought as kids. "Sometimes love doesn't come instantly," she explains. It can be like the ang ku kueh, "slow as a tortoise hiding in its shell." When it's time for Mama to snip a lock of Hana's hair, the baby wails, but Anya is there to comfort her. Though this tale treads familiar ground, it's sweet nevertheless, distinguished by the thoughtful inclusion of Chinese traditions. Chan's bright, colorful artwork gently teases out the relationship between family members--both Mama and Aunt Vee, as well as Anya and Hana. A heartfelt new-sibling tale, infused with cultural elements. (author's note, more information on 100th day customs, recipe for ang ku kueh)(Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.