100 DAYS

Anya and Mama have a very special relationship…until a new baby sister arrives.

Anya loves spending time with her mother. They build forts, snuggle up and read stories, and visit Anya’s favorite aunt, Vee. But one day, Anya’s parents bring home her new sibling, Hana. Spot-art vignettes depict Anya becoming increasingly sad and angry. Once in a while, Anya does feel a “tug on her heart, and [wonders] if that might be love,” but it quickly disappears once Mama focuses her attention on Hana. As weeks pass, everyone becomes even busier as they plan Hana’s 100th day party—a common milestone in Chinese culture. On the big day, Anya feels left out and finds Aunt Vee in the kitchen making ang ku kueh, and while the two form the turtle-shaped sweet treats together, Aunt Vee tells Anya about how she and Anya’s mama fought as kids. “Sometimes love doesn’t come instantly,” she explains. It can be like the ang ku kueh, “slow as a tortoise hiding in its shell.” When it’s time for Mama to snip a lock of Hana’s hair, the baby wails, but Anya is there to comfort her. Though this tale treads familiar ground, it’s sweet nevertheless, distinguished by the thoughtful inclusion of Chinese traditions. Chan’s bright, colorful artwork gently teases out the relationship between family members—both Mama and Aunt Vee, as well as Anya and Hana.

A heartfelt new-sibling tale, infused with cultural elements.