New Releases by Oliver Chin

2023 is the Year of the Rabbit! Rosie is a funny bunny whosejourney celebrates the new year. This edition features a bilingual Chinesetranslation. Born with very long ears, Rosie also has greatsense for adventure. She wants new sights to see and plants to taste. Aftergetting caught "visiting" a nearby vegetable garden, Rosie befriendsthe boy Jai. As other animals learn that she is an unusual bunny, will Rosieever find that her ears come in handy? Enjoy this hare-raising tale! Illustrating expressive characters and vibrantaction, artist Justin Roth creates an inviting new world for readers toexplore. Tales from the Chinese Zodiac is a popular annual children's book seriesshowcasing the twelve charming animals that embody the Chinese New Year. Rosie's high hops to find her true talents willdelight children and adults alike. Kids love identifying with how each animalembarks on a unique quest to discover his or her own character: Bright anddynamic illustrations will appeal to parents, those interested in Asianculture, and, of course, lovers of Bugs Bunny, the Easter Bunny, and PeterRabbit.. Teachers appreciate how Tales from theChinese Zodiac is the only English series on each of the animals ofthe Chinese lunar calendar. Librarians like how it one of the longest-runningchildren's book series featuring Asian American themes. Now readers everywherecan enjoy these entertaining and original tales. "this book is my favorite from the series... I fell in love with Justin Roth'sartwork. Rosie the rabbit is just adorable, and her rabbit family and friendsare just as cute." - Supah Cute

Explore the first English children’s picture book on how fireworks and gunpowder were created! This action-packed adventure features amazing illustrations which make history come alive. This is the second adventure in our series on cool inventions created in Asia. The cute red panda Dao transports the kids Emma and Ethan back in time to learn how fantastic creations came to be! This exciting journey investigates fireworks and gunpowder. It is like Globe Trekker meeting Back to the Future! The trio begins their trip 2,000 years ago in China! Alchemists discovered the secret formula for explosive powder and ancient dynasties used it.... even in war. Witness the evolution from flamethrower and bomb to gun and missile. However, fireworks also spread across the globe! Zip through the centuries to see how scientific advancements made new colors and shapes. Now everyone can celebrate happy occasions with dazzling light shows in the sky. Adults and children will enjoy this sequel to The Discovery of Ramen. This story vividly introduces interesting facts (even chemistry) with globe trotting. Readers will learn lessons never taught in school, plus see how these creations made possible modern pyrotechnics for festivals and holidays, from the Fourth of July to New Year’s. Discover more amazing inventions from The Asian Hall of Fame in the future! Teachers and librarians will appreciate how students eagerly absorb history, culture, and key words. Fans of comics and graphic novels will delight in the dynamic artwork, scenes so spectacular that you can see the sparkles and smell the smoke coming off the printed pages. - - - "We found this absolutely fascinating from both the perspective of enjoying a slice of Chinese history that made a huge contribution to something that people all around the world can enjoy at different times of the year, but also from the technical perspective of learning some of the intricate secrets of how fireworks actually do their thing. With a simple yet brilliantly explained set of facts worked into the story, and some really gorgeous illustrations, we'll be keeping an eye on Immedium's fabulous publications from now on." - Read it Daddy “The story carries a good balance between science and entertainment. Education, history and folktales blend to make a fun and engaging children’s book. The storytelling style intrigues readers to turn the page. It is a great read for children to encourage curiosity and adventure.” - Sampan “an immediate and enduringly popular addition to family, daycare center, preschool, elementary school, and community library collections.” - Midwest Book Review

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 and Rumiko Takahashi’s Ranma 1/2 to Hayao Miyazaki’s Studio Ghibli and Totoro. Mazinger, Speed Racer, and Doraemon are joined by Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, and Pokémon. Mobile Suit Gundam, Akira, and Ghost in the Shell meet Full Metal Alchelmist, One Piece, and One Punch Man. 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. Teachers and librarians will find this a great addition to their comic book and graphic novel collections. - - - "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 “In the book we see iconic Japanese anime characters such as Astroboy, Doraemon, Dragon Ball, My Neighbor Totoro, Sailor Moon, Pokemon, One Piece, One Punch Man and more. This makes the book not only fun for children, but also for adults, as they can flip through and remember beloved childhood characters. The story moves along with bright bold illustrations by Juan Calle. Each page is a love letter to manga, making this a delightful read for children and parents.” - Sampan “Brimming with colorful, dynamic illustrations...The Discovery of Anime & Manga is an eye-opening tour.” - Midwest Book Review "I will never forget watching My Neighbor Totoro with my daughter and the worlds that the film ushered in for me. I had never experienced moving images, sounds, pictures, music in quite that way before and the potentials and powers of animated film strongly impacted me as a scholar. It was then that I recognized that animé and manga had the kind of beauty that Susan Sontag described about as ‘a beauty with adjectives, arranged on a scale of ascending value and incorruptibility.’ In Amara and Chin’s The Discovery of Animé and Manga told through stunning illustrations by Calle, they offer a detailed, storied account of the evolution of animé and manga in Japan and eventually around the world. From whimsical drawings in the early twentieth century to kamishibai tales told in on street corners to the ubiquity of adults and children drawing animé and manga embodying otaku in their everyday lives. Everyone should read this history book to get a true understanding about the significance of not just animé and manga, but the power of multimodality on how we think and learn." —Dr. Jennifer Rowsell, Professor of Literacies and Social Innovation, University of Bristol, School of Education

Enjoy the first English children’s picture book on how Japan’s ramen noodles were created! Amazingly illustrated, this storybook features a glossary of Japanese terms. This is the first 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 invention of ramen. This quest is like Chef’s Table meets Back to the Future! The trio begins their trip in 1800’s Japan. They travel from the unpaved streets where pushcart vendors cooked to the growing capital of Tokyo. They witness the rise of instant ramen, Momofuku Ando’s Nissin cup of noodles, and now four star restaurants and celebrity chefs. Along the way, Dao and the kids visit ramen factories and museums and even zoom to outer space! Kids and educators will appreciate the story’s comprehensive scope and Japanese glossary. Since nearly every city has a ramen restaurant, adults and kids will enjoy learning how their favorite noodles are made! Readers will discover how chefs use different broths and ingredients to boost the special flavor of umami (the savory fifth taste) to make delicious noodle soups. Along the way, teachers and librarians will appreciate how students eagerly absorb Japanese food history, culinary culture, and key words. Fans of cooking shows and home cooks will delight in the dynamic artwork which render tasty dishes in mouthwatering color to the point where you can smell the aroma coming off the printed pages. - - - “Perhaps no dish says more about our hunger for Asian food today than ramen. This delightful tale shares the story of how this iconic noodle journeyed from China to worldwide acclaim as both comfort food and instant grub, beloved by bellies of all ages. Thanks for spreading awareness of Asian culture through its delicious cuisine!” — Danielle Chang, Founder of Luckyrice (www.luckyrice.com) and Creator of PBS TV series Lucky Chow “For youngsters, adults and noodle enthusiasts alike, this tale is not to be missed... Whatever your age, The Discovery of Ramen is an experience to whet your appetite with a subject worth savoring.” - Sampan “Travel across the world and back in time with Emma and Ethan as they learn all about the history and tradition of ramen from Dao, an adorable red panda who just happens to be an expert on Asian culture, cuisine, and, of course, all things ramen. Amusing anime-style illustrations show the magical, wide-eyed trio flying over China and Japan, tiptoeing past Taiwan, and floating into outer space on a fun, informative, and savory adventure.” - Foreword magazine “I really enjoyed reading about the history of ramen, and I suspect that whether your kids are already fans of these curly noodles in their various forms or not, this is a book that will definitely tempt their taste buds. I made them for my Kiddo when she was very young, and she’s been a ramen fan ever since.” - Randomly Reading

Ralph is an ambitious chick whose journey celebrates the new year. This edition features a bilingual Chinese translation. 2017 is the Year of the Rooster! Ray is a chick who proves to be very plucky! He loves his Mama hen and admires his Papa who has the important job of waking the town up everyday. However, he and his friend, the girl Ying, soon learn of a mystical creature that may shine even brighter. Together these two pals embark on a fantastic quest to find the fabled Phoenix. But will Ray ever get a chance to see the light? Befriending people and the other zodiac animals, can Ray 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. Ray’s vivid voyage to discover his real 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. - - - “The Year of the Rooster is a fun and inspirational story with lively illustrations, a perfect finale to his Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series.” - Sampan "Oliver Chin has a real knack for retelling the ancient Chinese zodiac stories for today's modern reader, and making them fun, energetic and understandable to anyone not already familiar with the tales, as well as those who are. And once again, the tales are totally supported by artist Juan Calle's dynamic, colorful illustrations." - Randomly Reading "Along with its playful text and easy to follow storyline, The Year of the Rooster’s dazzling illustrations by Juan Calle offer children adorable cartoon-like characters to connect with. As the need for diverse books remains strong, Chin’s book is an important reminder of how invaluable reading and learning about other cultures and traditions is for growing young minds. The Chinese New Year is always a great entrée into the Chinese culture and Chin’s books, as well as all of Immedium’s titles, continue to provide this engaging content." - Good Reads with Ronna "So while The Year of the Rooster marks the end of an era, it also satisfyingly brings the cycle of the Zodiac fill circle. There will be those who have scooped up the books as they emerged each year: but the good news is that it really doesn’t matter when you discover these fun stories... they are extra special in their own year of the Chinese cycle or when their particular animal is significant, but young children can now enjoy all twelve stories, all year round... The Year of the Rooster is a fun, feel-good story that is sure to set young children crowing for more " - Mirrors, Windows, Doors

The son of the famous Monkey King and Queen, Max takes a journey to be the best! This story features a bilingual Chinese translation. 2016 is The Year of the Monkey! The son of the legendary parents, Max has a lot to live up to. Now starting school, he befriends the boy Kai and learns a new sport. Succeeding in class is not easy, but luckily playing in the gym is! But when his parents tell him of their great expectations, does Max have what it takes to fly sky high? When facing a lofty destiny and rugged adversity, can Max forge his own claim to fame? Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Kenji Ono 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. 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. - - - "Illustrated by professional animator Kenji Ono, the dynamic artwork makes the zodiac animals jump off the pages. It's great fun to look for all 12 animals appearing throughout the book... Max exudes energy and determination, two wonderful traits to carry into the Year of the Monkey to achieve your dreams." - Sampan "Old meets new in this original story that celebrates the forthcoming Year of the Monkey with superhero-style comic art... How Max and Kai, his human partner, progress through a big-time tournament makes for an exciting trajectory and a charming affirmation. The take-away: Find your own way. This 11th book in the Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series has energy, adventure and culture." - San Francisco Chronicle "The Year of the Monkey immediately gained my enthusiasm... The illustrations are amazing. The action flies off the spreads. Max and the other characters are larger-than-life, full of spirit, energy, and emotion. I like the bright, active colors and the distinctive Chinese look some characters possess." - Kid Lit Reviews

Sydney is a bold lamb with a keen nose for adventure. Her breathtaking journey celebrates the new year. 2015 was The Year of the Sheep. Sydney may walk to the beat of a different drummer. However, after a storm strikes and causes a problem for everyone, can Sydney show them how valuable a sheep's qualities can be? Befriending people and the other zodiac animals, Sydney shows the best traits of people born in The Year of the Sheep, Illustrating expressive characters and vibrant action, artist Alina Chau 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. Sydney’s stirring travels to discover her real 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. - - - "Oliver Chin’s Tales from the Chinese Zodiac delight the eyes and heart.... The Year of the Sheep is no exception, with beautiful artwork and an inspirational message." - Sampan “With themes that include cooperation, friendship, creativity and even a dose of engineering, this delightful picture book is an excellent choice to share with young children. The soft watercolor illustrations by Alina Chau are a perfect fit for the story.” - Baltimore County Public Library "Combined with Chau’s stylized illustrations in a rainbow of colors, the prose in The Year of the Sheep demonstrates the personality of one particular little lamb Sydney, the story’s main character....Parents will enjoy sharing this picture book about the rewards of being a team player." - Good Reads with Ronna

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. It also doesn’t hurt that the heroine is playful and enjoys being a little girl’s jump rope. Despite the scales and fangs, Suzie is a snake with a heart of gold". - Sampan "In The Year of the Snake, Chin has managed to weave an adventurous story of friendship and acceptance into an important cultural lesson about the Chinese Zodiac... As a Teacher Librarian, I am continually searching for books that have a positive message as well as captivating illustrations, and The Year of the Snake is just that! - Julie Griffin, Palo Alto Unified School District, CA

Dominic the dragon befriends a boy named Bo as well as the other eleven animals of the Chinese lunar calendar and helps them enter the annual village boat race. Lists the birth years and characteristics of individuals born in the Chinese Year of the Dragon.

The fifth installment in the popular series featuring the animals of the Chinese Zodiac focuses on the new year 2010--the Year of the Tiger!

One night Balthazar is awakened from sleep by a band of pirates seeking help in finding their buried treasure, but when they get to the spot they find that an amusement park has been built atop the burial site.

Olivia the ox learns what her best qualities really are when her friend Mei needs help as a flood threatens their village. Lists the birth years and characteristics of individuals born in the Chinese Year of the Ox.

Ralph the rat learns what his best qualities really are when his friend Bing needs help after a big bunch of balloons carries him away. Lists the birth years and characteristics of individuals born in the Chinese Year of the Rat.

Family members whose names evoke the classic television show "Gilligan's Island" become castaways on an uncharted island, where they encounter a menagerie of wild and colorful monsters.

Timmy and Tammy love to play with toy trains and hear train stories, and when their parents take them on a real train ride the experience is everything they imagined it could be.

Julie is inspired by her film idol to take Kung fu classes, but soon learns to value the art much more than the color of the belt she might wear.

Patty the piglet learns what her best qualities really are when Farmer Wu needs everyone's help to find a lost ring. Lists the birth years and characteristics of individuals born in the Chinese Year of the Pig.

Describes the qualities of people who are born in the Year of the Dog through the story of a puppy who is born under the sign.

The alphabet is represented by a baby that has the characteristics of many different animals, from a beaver to a yak.

Set during the confusion following the terrorist attacks of September 11, the story begins when a history teacher asks his students to write a report based on an interview with someone who has a different viewpoint from their own. As they fan out into the community and encounter people of diverse backgrounds, opinions, and prejudices, the teens quickly realize that the story cannot be reduced to simple dichotomies of good versus evil or us versus them.