“Tomorrow Is New Year’s Day” by Aram Kim Reviewed In School Library Journal

Mina and her family spend a day sharing their traditional Korean celebrations of Lunar New Year, or Seollal, with Mina’s enthusiastic and engaged classmates. When Mina’s toddler brother threatens this special day with a meltdown about wearing hanbok, a traditional costume, kind classmates calm him by admiring the elaborate outfit. Boldly colored digital illustrations depict a diverse group of school friends. Though some customs are named without being described, illustrations fill in a general idea of what’s happening. Other customs are demonstrated step by step, and a glossary at the end offers more detail on the traditions in the story. Front endpapers show instructions for making a paper bokjumoni, or lucky bag. This title is a simple, warmhearted introduction to Seollal, and is another example of Kim’s skill at spotlighting Korean culture in an inviting and accessible way. VERDICT Recommended for general purchase, here is a sweet story, filled with goodwill, of one girl and her family generously sharing their traditions with others.

–Rachel Owens