The Runaway Wok
Magic wok changes lives in fun Lunar New Year tale.
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Ying Chang Compestine's The Runaway Wok is a fun, fast-paced story that combines magic and generosity and features exceptionally rich, brightly colored images on every page. Young Ming's family doesn't have much when they're getting ready for Lunar New Year and is ready to share what little they have with their friends. The family comes upon a magic wok with its own idea about extending gratitude and how to get the things they dream of having for a big celebration. Along with great lessons and eye-catching images, there's information about Lunar New Year, and a kid-friendly recipe for fried rice.
What's the Story?
In THE RUNAWAY WOK, young Ming's family has only a few eggs to trade for the rice they need to make the meal for Lunar New Year. They get upset when he's talked into trading the eggs for an old, rusted wok, but as soon as the family cleans and shines the wok, it escapes, running around town to collect surprises. Each time it returns to Ming, it brings more bounty. As the poor community gathers to celebrate, they're reminded about generosity and gratitude.
Is It Any Good?
There's a nice lesson here about looking out for others to be sure they have what they need before taking far more than you need for yourself. With a healthy dose of magic and absolutely stunning illustrations, THE RUNAWAY WOK also reminds readers to trust their intuition and value their community. This is a fun and delightful read, but the son being called "chubby" intertwines his selfish attitude with his body shape and detracts from the story.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about what they would share with their community for a celebration like in The Runaway Wok. What would you bring to a party? Would you want to prepare a particular food or have toys?
What makes a gathering special to you? Is it people, a place, an event, or something else?
What other books about Lunar New Year have you read? Which are your favorites?
Book Details
- Author: Ying Chang Compestine
- Illustrator: Sebastia Serra
- Genre: Picture Book
- Topics: Magic and Fantasy, Holidays
- Character Strengths: Gratitude
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Dutton Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: January 6, 2011
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 6 - 8
- Number of pages: 32
- Available on: Paperback, Hardback, Kindle
- Last updated: January 13, 2023
Our Editors Recommend
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The Night Before Lunar New Year
Family's Lunar New Year tale is a fun, detailed read-aloud.
-
Dragon Noodle Party: A Story of Chinese Zodiac Animals
Fun intro to the Chinese zodiac -- with noodle recipe!
-
Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon
Classic tale gets fun update from a Chinese perspective.
-
Alex's Good Fortune
Sweet, colorful story of family Lunar New Year traditions.
For kids who love Lunar New Year stories and Asian characters
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