2026 Mom’s Choice Gold Award Winner
2026 International Impact Book Award Winner in Children’s Picture Books
“Energetic and educational....young readers will enjoy the familiar rhyme scheme and humor, and adults will welcome the book’s mix of fun and education...” —Kirkus Reviews
The Chinese calendar, it appears,
has animals instead of years!
And, it is no mistake,
2025 is the Year of the Snake.
After returning home from his travels across the United States, Fred the Snake heads back to school and meets two new friends, Ellie and Connor, who introduce him to the exciting traditions of the Chinese Zodiac.
When Fred discovers that 2025 is the Year of the Snake, he and his friends learn about the legendary Great Race that determined the order of the twelve Zodiac animals. From the clever Rat and brave Tiger to the loyal Dog and gentle Pig, each animal’s story and personality comes alive through playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations.
Filled with humor, friendship, and cultural discovery, this delightful picture book introduces young readers to Chinese traditions, the Lunar New Year, and the meaning behind the Zodiac animals in a fun and engaging way. Perfect for families, classrooms, and curious readers, this adventure celebrates learning, diversity, and the joy of discovering new cultures.
“For families celebrating the Lunar New Year, for readers whose own birthday falls in the Year of the Snake, or for any child wanting to know more about Chinese traditions, this story is a satisfying and enriching read..” —The Children’s Book Review
