The Little Rat and the Golden Seed: A Story Told in English and Chinese — Li Jian

Learn how the clever Little Rat earned his place as one of the Chinese Zodiac Animals.

This adorable Chinese-English bilingual children's book tells the story of the Little Rat and the Grandpa -- unlikely allies who embark on an adventure to find a golden seed. They encounter rough seas, fierce guards and tall mountains, but -- in the end -- bring home a golden rice seed and save the village from going hungry.

Illustrated with unique Chinese ink paintings, this book also includes a "cultural explanation" section. Readers can reference a chart to learn the years of the rat and read more about common characteristics of people born then. Birth years include 2008 and 2020.

Other books in the Chinese Zodiac Series (as well as the year of that animal) include:

• Little Pigs and the Sweet Rice Cakes -- 2007 & 2019
• Magical Rooster -- 2005 & 2017
• Water Dragon -- 2012 & 2024
• Little Monkey King's Journey -- 2016 & 2028
• Snake Goddess Colors the World -- 2013 & 2025
• Horse and the Mysterious Drawing -- 2014 & 2026
• Sheep Beauty -- 2015 & 2027
• Bronze Dog -- 2006 & 2018
• Little Calf -- 2009 & 2021