MY SISTER'S DOLJABI

A young boy of Korean descent can’t wait for his sister’s 1st birthday.

“Like cherry blossom petals, excitement [is] in the air” as Hoon and his family shop at Koreatown in preparation. Back at home, Hoon’s Eomma explains each ritual as she sews little Binna’s first hanbok. Hoon’s Appa notes that a child’s 1st birthday is significant because in the past, many babies died young, including several of Hoon’s great-grandmother’s siblings. That revelation fills Hoon with worry for Binna’s well-being. According to Korean tradition, the first object a baby picks up at the doljabi ceremony will predict the child’s future, and Hoon hopes that Binna will choose the thread, which symbolizes long life. The day finally arrives, and Hoon tries to nudge his sister toward the thread, though she’s more interested in the rainbow rice cake. His parents tell him to let Binna choose for herself—and at last she does as a crowd of smiling family and friends look on. Korean terms and cultural markers are well explained and skillfully integrated into this gently told narrative. Bright colors fill each page, while Kim’s cartoonish art, textured with simple lines and patterns, sets a cozy tone.

A rich and inviting exploration of a Korean celebration.