Monkey's Sweet Surprise: A Lunar New Year Mix-Up

By Patricia Tanumihardja

A delightful Lunar New Year adventure inspired by the Vietnamese, Gurung, and Malay zodiac traditions--filled with friendship, teamwork, and delicious desserts

Monkey's Sweet Surprise: A Lunar New Year Mix-Up whisks young readers away to the Jade Empress's grand banquet, where a charming cast of zodiac animals--including Mouse Deer (from the Malay zodiac) and Cat (from the Vietnamese and Gurung zodiacs)--prepare their finest festive dishes. Determined to redeem himself after last year's kooky catastrophe, Monkey sets out to make the Empress's favorite dessert: pineapple tarts. But along the way, he discovers that the sweetest surprises come from helping friends and working together.

Set in a whimsical world inspired by these rich zodiac traditions, this beautifully illustrated picture book blends Southeast Asian cultural heritage, imaginative storytelling, and a deep love of food. Perfect for ages 4-8, it celebrates the spirit of Lunar New Year while sharing timeless lessons in friendship, teamwork, and forgiveness.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: B0DVBKVBD2
• ISBN13: 9798992271843
• Release Date: December 2025
• Publisher: Picnic Heist Publishing
• Length: 40 Pages
• Age Range: 4 to 8 years
• Grade Range: Preschool to Grade 3