Parents' Guide to The Runaway Wok

Book Ying Chang Compestine Picture Book 2011
Asian child chases a wok filled with food

Common Sense Media Review

Carrie Kingsley By Carrie Kingsley , based on child development research. How do we rate?

age 6+

Magic wok changes lives in fun Lunar New Year tale.

Parents Need to Know

Why Age 6+?

Any Positive Content?

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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?

Our review:
Parents say : Not yet rated
Kids say : Not yet rated

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

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Asian child chases a wok filled with food

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