Illustrated by Yu Ting Cheng
4 stars
A sweet story that follows Mr. Chow, a supermarket owner who loves the nighttime and sleeping in. But supermarkets are supposed to be open early. Mr. Chow seeks advice from his neighbors on how to get up earlier. But maybe he doesn’t have to. Maybe he needs to try something new.
Such a cute story. Beautifully written. I especially loved the food-related similes and metaphors in the narration (“moon is a wok full of simmering oil”, “sun is a melting mango on the horizon”).
The illustrations are really cute. Wonderful details and humor. I enjoyed the adorable little faces on the sun, moon, buildings, and furniture, but personally found the faces on the food items a little unappealing.
The backmatter contains information about Taiwan and its first night market, established in 1899. Li also shares about her experience with the Fulbright Taiwan program, her time in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, and her love of Taiwan’s night markets.
A wonderful story of creative thinking, trying new things, and working together.