The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac
By Dawn Casey    Illustrated by Anne Wilson

There are some stories that need to be shared across cultures. This is one of them. The ancient story of how the animals of the Chinese zodiac were chosen is entertaining and informative. The Great Race is an old story brought to life in this invigorating picture book. Children will love it, and even older kids and adults will enjoy the story and unique illustrations.
      The story starts in ancient China (thousands of years ago) with the Jade Emperor. He realizes that he needs a way to keep track of the years, and naming the years after animals will be the best way. But how to choose the 12 animals? He decides to hold a race.
      The animals line up and have to race across the river. Many animals want to cross the river and come in first place. The winner ends up being the Rat; he is clever and hitches a ride on the back of the ox. When they get close to the shore, the rat jumps off the back of the Ox and runs ahead of him. The Cat was also along for the ride on the Ox, but Rat pushed him off into the water as they were crossing the river. The Cat hates water, and will now forever hate the rat; Cat didn't even make it to the finish line!
     

All the other animals make it across; The rat, the Ox, the Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Dog and last but not least, the Pig. Because of this race the years will always fall in this order in the Chinese zodiac. 

       This is not the end of the story though; the book explains the twelve zodiac animals and their characteristics. It shows the years of each animal so readers can learn more about their own zodiac animal. In addition to the zodiac animals, the book also has information about the Chinese lunar calendar and the most important holidays; Chinese New Year, Dragon Boat Festival and Moon Festival.

       Not only is this a fun,  aesthetically pleasing book, but is also can explain elements of the Chinese culture. Although China and other Asian countries are far away from the US, there are many Asian and Asian American people living here. By creating a multicultural environment for readers at a young age, they can become acquainted with people from all over and know more about history from other countries. The Great Race is a wonderful way to introduce children to another culture and become aware of the legend of the Chinese zodiac.

--Jana Kania, ERDL 524