Julie Black Belt: The Belt of Fire

Suzie wants to prove to everyone that snakes have what it takes - her adventure rewrites social stereotypes and celebrates the new year.

This revised edition features a new bilingual translation in simplified Chinese.

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? 2025 is 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

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.

2024 is the Year of the Dragon! This revised edition is bilingual in simplified Chinese. 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

This amazingly illustrated storybook explores how chess originated and became the world’s most popular game. 

Chess has never been more popular. Fueled by the 2020 pandemic-induced increase in leisure time and the Netflix television series The Queen’s Gambit, more people play chess than ever before. But do they know where the game originated?

The trio teleport to ancient India to see how rajahs moved their armies onto a playing board. Then the curious travelers zip back to the future as chess migrated westward, across oceans, continents, and the internet! Learn about how iconic pieces evolved, legendary players, and the game’s enduring cultural influence. Readers of all ages will develop a greater appreciation of the game of kings... and queens!
This is the fourth 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. Now they explore the origin and evolution of chess!

Teachers and librarians will find this a great addition to their children’s picture book and illustrated collections. The influence of chess is boundless!

“Chess is everything: art, science, and sport.” - Anatoly Karpov, World Chess Champion

“These young guys are playing checkers. I’m out there playing chess.” ― Kobe Bryant