A double package of both of Jess X. Snow's children's books aimed for children ages 5-8.
WE ALWAYS HAD WINGS
Little Snow can’t remember the last time she was on an airplane, and is afraid of the long journey from her big city to the vast Chinese countryside Mama comes from. To soothe her nerves, Mama tells Little Snow the story of how their ancestors travelled before borders and countries existed—flying through the skies as cranes. What follows is a tender story of reconnecting with family during the holidays and remembering the magic of who you are in this gorgeous picture book debut from author-illustrator Jess X. Snow.
Young readers will understand Snow’s message viscerally, while adults will appreciate the political implications….A relatable vision of immigration that takes flight.” —Kirkus Reviews
“A mythic tale that celebrates Chinese North American heritage and culture….Snow’s cinematic vision is mesmerizing.” —School Library Journal
“[A] visually stunning solo picture book debut.” —Publishers Weekly
“An uplifting picture-book debut about intrinsic connections, both past and present.” —Booklist
"A stunning, mythology-inspired ode to the places and people who came before us as a girl embarks on her first visit to her mother’s hometown in China for Lunar New Year."
THE OCEAN CALLS
A Booklist and Kirkus Reviews Best Picture book of 2020.
A breathtaking picture book featuring a Korean girl and her haenyeo (free diving) grandmother about intergenerational bonds, finding courage in the face of fear, and connecting with our natural world.
– Starred Review from Kirkus:
"The vibrant illustrations in cool, deep blue hues, punctuated by ochers and brick reds, capture the beauty of the natural world and lift the work up to near mythic proportions..."
*Starred review from Booklist:
"This beautifully illustrated picture book is set on Jeju Island in South Korea, home of the haenyeo, legendary women divers who hunt for deep-sea delicacies. Young Dayeon wants to dive, just like Grandma, but is afraid of getting water up her nose or being eaten by some scary underwater creature. Grandma is patient, and just like her mother taught her, teaches Dayeon breath control and how to stay safe in the ocean as they gradually venture out farther and deeper."
*Starred review from Publisher's Weekly:
"In one spread, Snow shows grandmother and granddaughter heading for the beach as the sun casts shadows behind them that look like mermaid’s tails..."
*Starred review from School Library Journal:
"This expressive story is a must-have for any collection. As a bonus, the back matter provides extensive history on the haenyeo tradition, along with safety protocols and quotes from divers."
