Our energetic heroine Julie aims for her next martial arts rank - The Belt of Fire! But will a new student get in her way?

This long-awaited sequel to Julie Black Belt: The Kung Fu Chronicles picks up as Julie proudly wears her yellow belt and is eager to attain her next rank: orange! Still inspired by Brandy Wu, an action movie star, Julie now meets a new student in her class...but is he better than her? Can Julie learn to improve her abilities while becoming a gracious partner, and ultimately earning her own Belt of Fire?

It's like when her heroine Brandy Wu in a movie seeks a treasure but must combat a mysterious opponent! Another experienced teacher gives Julie valuable advice, but is Julie brave enough to make this wisdom her own? Artist Charlene Chua’s colorful, action-packed illustrations make Julie’s quest one that any aspiring martial arts practitioner, as well as their parents and instructors, will enjoy.

Children and parents identify with this spunky female star who is willing to give all she’s got. Julie is a fan favorite and young readers make her vivid story their own. Again this is an engaging introduction of martial arts to young children who enroll in after school programs. Inspired by a real girl in a taekwondo class, this story’s lessons are applicable to any martial art, such as karate, ju-jitsu, aikido, judo, and wrestling.

Kung fu means a skill achieved through consistent dedication. But Julie discovers that knowing the correct moves isn’t the most important thing. Teachers appreciate how the story promotes respect, conflict resolution, and self-defense, which in turn improves focus and concentration. Training builds confidence and social skills and improves physical fitness (coordination, balance, posture). Artist Charlene Chua’s vibrant drawings capture Julie’s high-flying action with dynamism and verve.

"With its bright, action-packed cover in super hero style, this book will draw young readers in, especially those interested in martial arts... Girls, especially, may welcome a female protagonist in a kung fu book, but primary boys will most likely enjoy this story as well."
- Puget Sound Council for Reviewing Children’s Literature/Media

2019 is the Year of the Pig! Patty is a peppy piglet whose journey celebrates the new year. This revised edition features a bilingual Chinese translation.




process, as Patty gets advice from her uncles, aunts, and cousins. But being a sensible pig takes practice, as Patty realizes when Farmer Wu loses his jade ring! Can Patty demonstrate her best qualities when others think they aren’t?



Befriending people and the other zodiac animals, can Patty show she’s got the right stuff? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Jeremiah Alcorn creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Patty’s exuberant trek to discover her true nature will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, pig lovers.



Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.



"With its delightful narrative and appealing artwork, The Year of the Pig reminds us of the many porcine qualities we would do well to cultivate in ourselves: intelligence, curiosity, sincerity and generosity. How wise are those who learn from pigs rather than eat them!" - Sy Montgomery, author of The Good Good Pig

Curiosity kindles this cat. Teddy is a cub who is destined to be a tiger king! His thrilling journey celebrates the new year.

Born into royalty, the young prince Teddy is warned by the King and Queen to steer clear of humans who are intruding into their wild domain. However, curiosity compels this cat to befriend the girl Su. But each camp doesn’t want to cross the other’s tracks. Despite his parents' warnings,. But can Teddy prove the jungle is big enough for both man and beast?

2010 was the Year of the Tiger! Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Justin Roth creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Teddy’s roaring run to find his true talents will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, cat lovers.

Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.

"Oliver Chin has continued his entertaining stories of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac with another story that teaches both Eastern and Western values to children. Courage, friendship, and personal growth are all displayed in this story of a young tiger learning his place in the jungle and among humans."
- Warren W. Wright, Chinese American International School

Rosie’s high hops to find her true talents will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, lovers of Bugs Bunny, the Easter Bunny, and Peter Rabbit..

Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.

“this book is my favorite from the series... I fell in love with Justin Roth’s artwork. Rosie the rabbit is just adorable, and her rabbit family and friends are just as cute.”
- Supah Cute

2020 is the Year of the Rat! Ralph is a resolute rodent whose journey celebrates the new year. This edition features a bilingual Chinese translation.




Young Ralph explores the world with his friend, the boy Bing. But being an impish rodent, Ralph finds some habits hard to break. Now Ralph is not allowed to attend Bing's birthday party! However, when a bunch of overinflated balloons unexpectedly carry Bing away by, can Ralph save the day?



Befriending people and the other zodiac animals, can Ralph show he’s got the right stuff? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Jeremiah Alcorn creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Ralph’s fanciful flight to discover his true nature will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, dog lovers.



Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.



“Though recommended for elementary students, The Year of the Rat is steeped in Asian culture and will appeal to readers of all ages. And even if readers cannot engage personally with the traits of the Rat, they will certainly be able to identify with Ralph’s feats and struggles.”

- Paper Tigers

Enjoy the first English children’s picture book on how Japanese animation and comics were created! Amazingly illustrated, this storybook features a bilingual Japanese translation.




This is the third adventure in our series on cool inventions created in Asia. The cute red panda Dao makes history come alive by transporting the kids Emma and Ethan back in time. Together they learn how fantastic creations came to be and zip back to the future! This dynamic journey explores the evolution of Japanese animation and comic books.



Published in newspapers, magazines, books, and graphic novels, comics became TV shows, movies, and games. These entertainment brought Japanese pop culture across the globe and influenced artists everywhere.

This quest features 100 of your favorite characters and creators: from Osamu Tezuka’s Astro Boy to Hayao Miyazaki’s Totoro, to Speed Racer, Sailor Moon, and Pokémon. Iconic and best-selling series are brought to life with the amazing artwork of Juan Calle, an otaku (big fan) himself.



Adults and kids can learn about the categories shonen, shojo, and mecha (giant robots), use a handy glossary, and draw inspiration to create their own amazing stories.



" The Discovery of Anime and Manga bursts from the page with energy and color. Informative and entertaining, it's a beautifully rendered concise introduction to manga and anime for not only children, but comics fans of all ages."
- Dr. Dale Jacobs, Department of English, University of Windsor, Canada

"A storybook ideal for launching the lunar year."—Books Inc.

"The Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series has energy, adventure and culture."—San Francisco Chronicle

2017 is the Year of the Rooster, the twelfth and final adventure in the popular annual series Tales from the Chinese Zodiac.

Tales from the Chinese Zodiac remains the only English-language series on the New Year's animals. Year of the Rooster completes this unprecedented run!

Ray is a young chick whose father wakes the town each day. When others spot the mythical phoenix, Ray tries to locate this legendary creature and learns about himself during the journey.

Year of the Rooster features a bilingual translation in simplified Chinese. The books in the Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series provide empowering themes of self-discovery, cultural exchange, and mutual respect to children, parents, and elementary educators.

Oliver Chin has written sixteen children's books.

Liberum Donum is a talented South American art studio.

Suzie wants to prove to everyone that snakes have what it takes! This helpful serpent’s misison to rewrite social stereotypes celebrates the new year.

Suzie is a young serpent who seeks high-flying adventure. The girl Lily befriends the snake, much to her grandparents' chagrin. However, Suzie aims to shed others' negative perceptions of snakes. Can she prove her versatility to Lily's family and the neighboring animals? And what will Suzie do when the wisest choice is to lie low? 2013 was The Year of the Snake.

When others doubt her, can Suzie show that an adaptable attitude can overcome all obstacles? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Jennifer Wood creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Suzie’s rollercoaster ride to discover her true nature will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, lovers of serpents and dragons.

Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.

“The book is gorgeously illustrated by Jennifer Wood in lush pastels... The heartwarming story about overcoming misconceptions resounds in any culture.. Despite the scales and fangs, Suzie is a snake with a heart of gold.”
- Sampan

2018 is the Year of the Dog! Daniel is an adventurous puppy whose journey celebrates the new year. This revised edition features a bilingual Chinese translation.

The puppy Daniel explores the world with his parents and the girl Lin, and learns how to become "man's best friend.” Growing up is an adventure, but being a good dog takes practice, as Daniel realizes when he barks up the wrong tree! Can Daniel prove his loyalty and dependability by helping Lin when she needs him the most?

Befriending people and the other zodiac animals, can Daniel show his true colors? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Jeremiah Alcorn creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Daniel’s rollicking journey to discover his true nature will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, dog lovers.

Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.

"The tale, along with the wonderfully animated pictures by Miah Alcorn, makes for a fun read for young children and their parents. With this book, you could definitely judge it by its cover."
- Book Dads

Can Julie learn kung fu and get her black belt? Real kid power is more inspirational than Kung Fu Panda or The Karate Kid!

When Julie takes a kung fu class, she thinks getting a black belt will be easy. But her bold teacher says guess again! Since practice takes patience, Julie wonders, what would her movie idol Brandy Wu do?

Can Julie take her lessons to heart, and exercise both her mind and body? Then will she develop the self-confidence and discipline necessary to take the Yellow belt test and show her brother, parents, and heroine the true "spirit” of this sport?

Children and parents identify with Julie’s attitude and journey. She is a modern, refreshing character who leads a diverse class and displays authentic girl power. This is an engaging introduction of martial arts to young children who enroll in after school programs. Inspired by a real girl in a taekwondo class, this story’s lessons are applicable to any martial art, such as karate, ju-jitsu, aikido, judo, and wrestling.

Like real youngsters, Julie learns by doing. Teachers appreciate how the story promotes respect, conflict resolution, and self-defense, which in turn improves focus and concentration. Training builds confidence and social skills and improves physical fitness (coordination, balance, posture). Artist Charlene Chua’s vibrant illustrations capture Julie’s high-flying action and her evolving commitment with dynamic energy. The adventures continue in Julie Black Belt: The Belt of Fire!

“Practice makes perfect. That’s what Julie learns in her beginning kung fu class along with lessons about dedication and determination. (She thinks getting a black belt will be a snap.)...a high-action story that encourages deep reflection despite the action movie look.”
- San Francisco Chronicle

Come along and meet unique, extraordinary, and huge creatures on a mysterious isle. It’s like Monster Hunter and Godzilla on Gilligan's Island!

On a fantastic voyage, a family discovers legendary monsters that come alive before their very eyes. A vacation goes awry when a perfect storm tosses their skipper’s tiny boat off course. Finnegan, his sister, parents, and dog Howl become seven castaways, stranded on a uncharted desert island!

Curiously, they venture into the unknown and encounter a menagerie of colorful and cackling creatures. These survivors see beasts bigger than life and straight from their wildest imaginations! But despite all their differences (and a menacing mountain), can everybody finally get along? Readers will learn about new animals and take a trip they’ll never forget being lost was never so fantastic!

Winner of Bookbuilders West award: 2009 Best children’s book cover. Artist of the Year at the GenCon 2011 annual convention, Jeff Miracola, a master monster maker, illustrates a zootopia from ancient lore including the Yowie (Australian Bigfoot), frosty Abominable Snowman, regal Gryphon, and swimming Ogopogo (Canada’s Loch Ness Monster).

Kids will love exploring a wonderful world full of bizarre beings. Parents will admire marvelously rendered artwork and pop culture references. Teachers and Librarians will appreciate how students will even learn about science fiction and mythology.

"Jeff's work has fascinated me since we first met while working on games like Dungeons & Dragons. His art and imagination were cutting-edge then, and what he brings to the children's book world is cutting-edge now."
- Tony DiTerlizzi, co-creator of The Spiderwick Chronicles

The Year of the Dragon is the most lucky and popular... for good reason! Dominic is an adventurous dragon whose journey celebrates the new year.

2012 was the Year of the Dragon! Dominic’s proud parents rule the sea and sky, advise the Emperor, and have high expectations for their son. Meanwhile Dom befriends the boy Bo and the other zodiac animals, who wish to paddle a boat in the village’s annual river race. But when other people and Dom’s parents disapprove, what will Dom do? Discover Dom’s ingenious solution in this enthusiastic tale!

When others tell him what to do, can Dominic eventually spread his own wings? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Jennifer Wood creates an inviting new world for readers to explore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children’s book series showcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year.

Dominic’s exciting journey to discover his true nature will delight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animal embarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright and dynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asian culture, and, of course, dragon lovers.

Teachers appreciate how Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals of the Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-running children's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywhere can enjoy these entertaining and original tales.

“The Year of the Dragon is a welcome addition to this imaginative menagerie of endearing characters, whose stories embody the chief characteristics of each animal of the Chinese Zodiac in turn.”
- Mirrors, Windows, Doors