Mother's Day is the perfect occasion to celebrate the love and warmth that mothers bring into our lives. It's a time to honor the maternal figures who have nurtured and supported us along life's journey. What better way to celebrate than by reading a book together that captures the beauty of motherhood?
In this post, I have selected 9 heartwarming books written and/or illustrated by AAPI authors that beautifully depict the love between mothers and their children. From gardening to cooking, bedtime stories to acts of service, these books showcase the unique ways in which mothers express their love and devotion.
Whether you're a mother yourself, or looking for a meaningful gift for a special mother in your life, these books are sure to touch your heart and remind you of the unbreakable bond between a mother and child.
Jump to Book:
All the Things I Love About You
Author/Illustrator: LeUyen Pham (@uyenloseordraw)
"All the Things I Love About You" is a heartwarming and humorous children's book that celebrates the unconditional love between a mother and her young child. This book will be cherished by both children and parents alike, reminding us of the small actions that make love grow stronger every day.
Cora Cooks Pancit
Author: Dorina K. Lazo Gillmore (@dorinalazogilmore)
Illustrator: Kristi Valiant (@kristivaliant)
"Cora Cooks Pancit" is a heartwarming story about a Filipino-American girl named Cora who learns to cook one of her favorite dishes, pancit, with her mother. This beautifully illustrated book celebrates family, culture, and the joy of cooking together. The book includes a glossary of Tagalog words and a pancit recipe at the end for readers to try at home.
I am a Magnificent Asian Mom
Author: Yobe Qiu (@byyobeqiu)
Illustrator: Kitty Wong (@kittynwong)
"I Am a Magnificent Asian Mom" is an empowering picture book filled with positive affirmations and colorful illustrations to remind Asian and Asian American moms of their value and power. The book encourages moms to embrace their culture, believe in themselves, and chase their goals. This is a must-read for any mom in need of a confidence boost and a reminder of their worth.
Let's Do Everything and Nothing
Author/Illustrator: Julia Kuo (@juliaskuo)
"Let's Do Everything and Nothing" is a breathtaking picture book that emphasizes the beauty of spending time with someone you love and enjoying the little moments together. The illustrations perfectly capture the mood of the story, starting with dark blues and transitioning to bright yellows, conveying the feeling of a sunrise. This book is a perfect reminder to slow down and cherish the time spent with loved ones.
Love is Mama's Hands
Author: Tracy Guan (@tangerineandjadepress)
Illustrator: Bo Feng Lin (@bofenglin)
"Love is Mama's Hands" is a heartwarming picture book that celebrates the love of a mother for her family. The mama in this book shows love for her family by preparing delicious food, keeping the home in order, working hard, caring for her children when they’re sick, and other acts of service. This book is available in English only or a bilingual edition with Traditional Chinese and Pinyin.
Mama’s Bedtime Tales and the Wonders of Asia
Author: Conny Wong (@minilovetales)
Illustrator: Juventia Marline (@juventiamarline)
"Mama's Bedtime Tales and the Wonders of Asia" is a beautifully illustrated picture book that takes readers on a journey to the wonders of Asia. Through the tales that Mama tells her children each night, readers will explore places such as the Borneo Rainforest in Malaysia, the Great Wall of China, and the Taj Mahal in India. This book reminds us that stories have the power to transport us to different places.
My Love for You is Always
Author: Gillian Sze (@gilliansze)
Illustrator: Michelle Lee (@fromthebear)
"My Love for You is Always" is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book that explores the depths of a mother's love for her child. Through the use of food analogies, the story depicts how love can be warm, fragrant, and bright. This heartwarming book is perfect for Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, or any day when you want to remind your little ones of the unconditional love that you have for them.
One Day
Author: Joanna Ho (@joannahowrites)
Illustrator: Faith Pray (@faith.pray)
One Day is a beautiful and heartwarming picture book about the depth of a mother's love for her son. The book is a celebration of motherhood and a mother's hopes and dreams for her child, as she envisions him exploring the world, being courageous and kind, powerful and curious, and above all, knowing that he is enough exactly as he is. This book is a perfect gift for Mother's Day or any occasion to express your love and appreciation for your loved ones.
The Ugly Vegetables
Author/Illustrator: Grace Lin (@pacylin)
"The Ugly Vegetables" is a heartwarming picture book about a mother and daughter's unique garden that grows Chinese vegetables. Through their garden, they learn the value of community and how something that may seem unappealing at first can turn into something delicious and bring people together. This book also includes a vocabulary list and a recipe for "Ugly Vegetable Soup" making it not only a great story but also a fun learning experience for children.
Do you know a fantastic book that would make a great addition to this list? I'd love to hear your recommendations! Please leave a comment below and let me know your thoughts. Thank you for helping make this list even better!
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