Dim Sum, Here We Come!

While the food might seem to steal the show in this cheerful book, Lam links it all together with an emphasis on sharing: "sharing dim sum means I love you." Whether they're familiar with dim sum or not, little kids are sure to recognize the experience of eating lots (and lots!) of food with loved ones. 

Lam's love of both dim sum and family is infectious, and she deftly weaves cultural details into the story, such as family members tapping their fingers to thank Uncle Jeremy for refilling hot tea for everyone. Delicious. 

PreS-Gr 2--A multigenerational family meets every Sunday to enjoy dim sum. A younger member of the extended family, sporting a tousled black bob, red shirt, and white shorts, is the enthusiastic narrator. The color illustrations are charming, with plenty of small details that invite a closer look. One uncle explains some of the restaurant's decor, including a kumquat tree, a happy cat statue, and a tank of brightly colored fish. They are all symbols of good luck. The customs of the meal are revealed as the 12 family members gather at a large round table. Bird's-eye views offer different appreciations for the enjoyment of tea and the vast array of dishes from which to choose. The young narrator naturally talks about the importance and fun in the sharing of the dishes. The love this family shares is clear. The endpapers are an added delight. The front ones show 18 dishes to savor. The back ones are the now empty vessels with happy reviews. VERDICT An engaging story that fits into any collection; the sharing of food crosses cultural lines and will make everyone hungry for some great dim sum!--Elisabeth LeBris

Copyright 2022 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

This is a charming, ebullient celebration of family and food, but it is also a playful primer for readers unfamiliar with Chinese customs and dim sum, including details like tapping the table twice as a thank you. Lam's cartoony, big-headed figures call up Schulz's Peanuts characters, and the watercolor and colored pencil illustrations give mouthwatering detail to the delectable spread. This is an easy pick for a tasty food-themed storytime, perhaps paired with Maillard's Fry Bread or last month's Mama's Home—just be sure to have snacks on hand. — Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books