The Year of the Rat - (Tales from the Chinese Zodiac) by Oliver Clyde Chin (Hardcover)

About the Book

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 series showcasing the twelve charming animals of the Chinese New Year.

"This story is just so sweet and the illustrations have that beautiful classic cartoon feel. Makes me proud to be a rat!"
- Coquette

Book Synopsis

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, animal 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

From the Back Cover

"Chin's story brings the Year of the Rat to life with his endearing characters and an amusing storyline. The cartoon-like drawings by Miah Alcorn, who has partnered with Chin for all three books, bring enthusiasm and added energy to Chin's tale and characters. 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

Review Quotes

"Bing's new pet, baby rat Ralph, proves to be a handful as he must learn to mind his own business and rein in his curiosity, not to mention his uncontrollable gnawing. Of course, his smarts and resourcefulness eventually save the day. The third in Chin's animal zodiac series provides a waggish romp exploring the characteristics of those born in the upcoming Year of the Rat (like my Ralph-like daughter)." - The Bloomsbury Review

"RBF Approved - We Tested, We Love: The illustrated children's book The Year of the Rat by Oliver Chin is super cute about a little rat who gets into trouble with the family of humans he lives with because he gnaws a little too much and hoards items he shouldn't be hoarding. Bright, colorful illustrations, a cute cast of characters and a lesson that sometimes we need to be true to ourselves made this a delightful read." - Rare Bird Finds

"These books are a great gift idea for friends and family" - National Association of Asian American Professionals, Boston Chapter

"Starred Pick for Kids and Parents: Furry Fantasy: Ralph is a curious and friendly baby rat, who finds himself in all sorts of pickles as he tries to make friends and understand the world around him...Just when Ralph thinks he's lost all hope of making friends, he gets the chance to save the day and discovers that his seeming liabilities aren't to bad after all." -Audrey Magazine

"From the intriguing storyline to the dynamic illustrations, young children will understand the importance of character while learning about the Chinese zodiac... The book is a great choice for parents to read with their kids." - Sampan

"This story is just so sweet and the illustrations have that beautiful classic cartoon feel. Makes me proud to be a rat!" - Coquette

About the Author

Oliver Chin is the author of The Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series, Welcome to Monster Isle, Baltazar and the Flying Pirates, Julie Black Belt, Timmy and Tammy's Train of Thought, and The Adventures of WonderBaby. His family lives in San Francisco, California.

Jeremiah Alcorn is the artist of The Year of the Dog, Pig (which ForeWord magazine recommended because "readers young and old will enjoy this journey"), and Ox. He resides in Alabama with his wife and children.