Fang, X. Broken. X. Fang, Illus. Tundra, 10/2025. 48pp. Picture Book. Trade $18.99. 978-1-774-88200-9. GRADES Preschool–3. OUTSTANDING.
Every patch and every repair tells a story, and every page of heartfelt illustrations perfectly portrays this tender, laugh-out-loud story of the path to honesty and understanding. With satisfying theatrical drama and kid-centered humor, Mei-Mei struggles to face staggering guilt after breaking Ama’s treasured cup; terrified of Ama’s possible reactions, Mei-Mei lets Mimi the cat take the blame. The cinematic perspectives of approaching Ama, the disapproving cat, and the retreat to the closet all provide a comedic outlet for a commonly shared childhood experience. Fang’s digitally mastered pencil artwork provides warmth and comfort through earthy colors, shaded strokes, and rounded images. Despite the anxiety-filled events, Mei Mei’s experience is ultimately a reassuring tale of how life’s little and big repairs are always eased with love.
Alexandre Petrakis—San Francisco Public Library