"Chin's story brings the Year of the Rat to life with his endearing characters and an amusing storyline. The cartoon-like drawings by Miah Alcorn, who has partnered with Chin for all three books, bring enthusiasm and added energy to Chin's tale and characters. Though recommended for elementary students, The Year of the Rat is steeped in Asian culture and will appeal to readers of all ages. And even if readers cannot engage personally with the traits of the Rat, they will certainly be able to identify with Ralph's feats and struggles." - Paper Tigers "RBF Approved - We Tested, We Love: The illustrated children's book The Year of the Rat by Oliver Chin is super cute about a little rat who gets into trouble with the family of humans he lives with because he gnaws a little too much and hoards items he shouldn't be hoarding. Bright, colorful illustrations, a cute cast of characters and a lesson that sometimes we need to be true to ourselves made this a delightful read." - Rare Bird Finds Ralph the rat explores the world with the boy Bing. But when Bing's birthday party goes awry, can Ralph rescue him using traits that others frowned upon? The third in the popular series introduces the twelve charismatic animals from the Chinese calendar. 2008 is the Year of the Rat. "This story is just so sweet and the illustrations have that beautiful classic cartoon feel. Makes me proud to be a rat!" - Coquette

Author Biography

Oliver Chin is the author of The Tales from the Chinese Zodiac series, Welcome to Monster Isle, Baltazar and the Flying Pirates, Julie Black Belt, Timmy and Tammy's Train of Thought, and The Adventures of WonderBaby. His family lives in San Francisco, California. Jeremiah Alcorn is the artist of The Year of the Dog, Pig (which ForeWord magazine recommended because "readers young and old will enjoy this journey"), and Ox. He resides in Alabama with his wife and children.