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An ALA Notable Book • A Bookpage Best Picture Book of the Year

★ “A beautifully drawn, cleverly told tale of bravery and wit…. As Lulu discovers, wonders await those who take a chance and dive in.” —Bookpage, starred review

★ “Readers are plunged into an enchanted world where drawing skills and creative problem-solving hold the key to a favorable outcome…. A masterful integration of storytelling.” —School Library Journal, starred review

“This charming story utilizing a comics format will engage readers with its blend of history, language learning, and adventure.” —Booklist

“A fun and clever introduction to an ancient art form.” —Kirkus Reviews

“Hand-rendered watercolor, colored pencil, and Chinese ink art offers a visual feast via energetic brushwork and transparent pools of color.” —Publishers Weekly

Lulu and her dog Dumpling enter a magical world where Chinese calligraphy comes to life in this beautifully illustrated, interactive picture book about family, tradition, and the importance of kindness.

After Grandpa introduces calligraphy and Chinese characters to Lulu and her dog Dumpling, they find themselves magically transported to a world where the characters they draw come to life! Soon Lulu and Dumpling meet a bird, a zither-playing musician, and many other animated friends. But when they discover an angry dragon, Lulu is not sure how to draw them out of this tense encounter.

Spanning themes of art and history, this inventive story introduces children to complex Chinese characters, celebrates family and tradition, and shows how resourcefulness and kindness can save the day.