"Each Tale from the Chinese Zodiac] combines a sense of tenacious accomplishment with just plain rollicking fun. Illustrator Jennifer Wood makes sure to imbue every page with energy in motion - 'dazzling and colorful'... Chin's latest title is also an adorable reminder to get out in the world and enjoy this 'sensational Year of the Snake.' " -- Smithsonian Book Blog

"Humor, adventure, and tradition come together for another fun installment in Oliver Chin's Chinese Zodiac series. Don't be scared off by the scales and fangs. Suzie is one snake you'll wish you had around " -- Michelle Loomis, San Mateo County Library, CA

"In "The Year of the Snake," Chin has managed to weave an adventurous story of friendship and acceptance into an important cultural lesson about the Chinese Zodiac... As a Teacher Librarian, I am continually searching for books that have a positive message as well as captivating illustrations, and "The Year of the Snake" is just that --Julie Griffin, Palo Alto Unified School District, CA

2013 is "The Year of the Snake" 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?

Suzie's journey to discover her unique personality will delight kids of all ages. Eighth in the annual Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series, "The Year of the Snake" shows the charming characters of the Chinese lunar calendar and how an adaptable attitude can overcome all obstacles.

Oliver Chin lives in San Francisco, California.

Jennifer Wood is an animator at Nickelodeon in Burbank, California.

"Each "Tale from the Chinese Zodiac"] combines a sense of tenacious accomplishment with just plain rollicking fun. Illustrator Jennifer Wood makes sure to imbue every page with energy in motion--'dazzling and colorful.'"--"Smithsonian BookDragon"

2014 is "The Year of the Horse" Hannah is a foal who befriends the boy Tom. Together can they bring his art teacher's important painting to the capital faraway?

Ninth in the popular annual series, this tale features the Chinese lunar calendar's twelve animals and shows how an unbridled spirit can blaze its own trail.

Oliver Chin lives in San Francisco, California.

Artist Jennifer Wood is an animator at Nickelodeon in Burbank, California.

"Martial arts are booming because they offer something for all ages."-Prevention

"[Martial arts] demonstrates the value of hard work, practice and consistent dedication."-The Washington Post

"When a child learns about his body and also learns discipline, it can't help but benefit all of his everyday habits"-Los Angeles Times

"It's a kick! Kids look to martial arts for skills and attitudes missing from team sports."-The Christian Science Monitor

When Julie takes a kung fu class, she thinks getting a black belt will be easy. But her bold teacher says guess again! As reality doesn't match her expectations, Julie wonders, what would her matinee idol Brandy Wu do?

Can Julie take her lessons to heart? Only then can this "white belt" pass her next test to show her brother, parents, and heroine this sport's true spirit.

Colorful and energetic illustrations capture both high-flying action and purposeful reflection. Julie is a refreshing female character whom children everywhere can identify with. This engaging introduction to the world of martial arts displays what real kid power is!

Oliver Chin has written Timmy and Tammy's Train of Thought, the acclaimed Tales of the Chinese Zodiac series, The Adventures of WonderBaby, and other books. Residing in San Francisco, California, he is married with two sons.

Charlene Chua is an award-winning illustrator who has designed advertising for Dentsu and Saatchi & Saatchi, and editorial pieces for FHM, Maxim, and IGN.com. She resides in Toronto with her husband.