Story Time with Patricia Tanumihardja

Ring in the Lunar New Year with a story full of Zodiac animals and savory mischief

Bards Alley is delighted to welcome local author Patricia Tanumihardja for our first story time event of 2026!

Ahead of Lunar New Year celebrations in February, Tanumihardja will read her latest picture book "Monkey's Sweet Surprise: A Lunar New Year Mix-Up," whose characters are inspired by Vietnamese, Gurung, and Malay zodiac traditions. The book is as chaotic and sweet as a family gathering, boasting colorful illustrations by artist Bonnie Lui. 

Her reading will be followed by a signing, with copies of "Monkey's Sweet Surprise" available for purchase at Bards Alley. While ideal for kids ages 3 to 8, this event is open to all. No registration is required.

ABOUT THE BOOK

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 4–8, it celebrates the spirit of Lunar New Year while sharing timeless lessons in friendship, teamwork, and forgiveness.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patricia (Pat) Tanumihardja grew up a third culture kid, forever curious about the world around her and her place in it. Born in Jakarta and raised in Singapore, her Indonesian Chinese parents encouraged her appetites for both delicious foods and good books. As a writer, Pat’s work explores food, culture, and self. Her fun, heartwarming stories often echo her lived experiences buoyed by universal themes. Her debut children's book Ramen for Everyone was a JLG Gold Selection, and was soon followed by Jimmy’s Shoes and The Sugar Plum Bakers. Today, Pat writes both children’s books and cookbooks from her home in Northern Virginia where she lives with her husband and son. Don’t be shy to hit her up for some favorite recipes!