Monkey’s Sweet Surprise

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 Zodiac)-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 48, it celebrates the spirit of Lunar New Year while sharing timeless lessons in friendship, teamwork, and forgiveness.