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The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli: A New York Times Bestselling Historical Adventure Across Time for Kids
INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES AND USA TODAY BESTSELLER * INDIE NEXT PICK * FIVE STARRED REVIEWS!
Named a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, ALA Booklist, Publishers Weekly, BookPage, The Strategist, Book Riot, the New York Public Library, and the Chicago Public Library!
Breathtaking suspense, unforgettable characters, and a pinch of magic combine in the dual stories of two young people—one in 731 China, and one in 1931 Chinatown—on perilous journeys to save their families. An instant classic from the beloved and bestselling author of the Vanderbeekers series.
“A page turner that is at once epic and intimate. This is a must read!” —Lisa Yee, New York Times bestselling author of The Misfits
In ancient Chang’An, Han Yu sells steamed buns in a bustling market full of whispers about his ability to summon tigers.
In New York’s Depression-era Chinatown, Luli gazes out from the roof of her parents’ restaurant, dreaming of dim sum and Chinese art.
Familiar rhythms rule the contained-but-contented lives of Han Yu and Luli. But when plague strikes Chang’An and financial crisis threatens Luli’s family, Han Yu and Luli must each venture out into the larger world—and into danger-filled adventure—to save what they love most. Filled with wondrous caves and conniving thieves, desert storms and magical lakes, Karina Yan Glaser’s epic and rewarding novel is a testament to the bravery required to face the unknown and the power of art to connect us through the ages.
“The work of a virtuoso, this is quite simply dazzling and the best book I’ve read in a long time.” —James Ponti, New York Times bestselling author of City Spies
Named a Best Book of the Year by Kirkus Reviews, School Library Journal, ALA Booklist, Publishers Weekly, BookPage, The Strategist, Book Riot, the New York Public Library, and the Chicago Public Library!
Breathtaking suspense, unforgettable characters, and a pinch of magic combine in the dual stories of two young people—one in 731 China, and one in 1931 Chinatown—on perilous journeys to save their families. An instant classic from the beloved and bestselling author of the Vanderbeekers series.
“A page turner that is at once epic and intimate. This is a must read!” —Lisa Yee, New York Times bestselling author of The Misfits
In ancient Chang’An, Han Yu sells steamed buns in a bustling market full of whispers about his ability to summon tigers.
In New York’s Depression-era Chinatown, Luli gazes out from the roof of her parents’ restaurant, dreaming of dim sum and Chinese art.
Familiar rhythms rule the contained-but-contented lives of Han Yu and Luli. But when plague strikes Chang’An and financial crisis threatens Luli’s family, Han Yu and Luli must each venture out into the larger world—and into danger-filled adventure—to save what they love most. Filled with wondrous caves and conniving thieves, desert storms and magical lakes, Karina Yan Glaser’s epic and rewarding novel is a testament to the bravery required to face the unknown and the power of art to connect us through the ages.
“The work of a virtuoso, this is quite simply dazzling and the best book I’ve read in a long time.” —James Ponti, New York Times bestselling author of City Spies
432 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 16, 2025
58 people are currently reading
4731 people want to read
About the author
Karina Yan Glaser
20 books1,107 followersOriginally from California, Karina came to New York City for college and has stuck around for nearly twenty years. She has had a varied career teaching and implementing literacy programs in family homeless shelters and recruiting healthcare professionals to volunteer in under resourced areas around the world. Now as a mother, one of her proudest achievements is raising two kids who can’t go anywhere without a book. She lives in Harlem with her husband, two daughters, dog, cat, and house rabbit.
Karina is a contributing editor at Book Riot where she writes about children's books and her life as a reader.
Karina is a contributing editor at Book Riot where she writes about children's books and her life as a reader.
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November 19, 2025This is one of Book Riot’s Best Books of 2025:
This gorgeous, expansive middle grade historical fiction delves into Chinese history through two alternating timelines. As Han Yu traverses ancient China with a poet to sell goods for his ill family, Luli launches a museum to aid her family during the Great Depression in Chinatown, New York City. These two tweens use courage and creativity to support their families, their two storylines becoming increasingly interconnected as the novel progresses. It’s an action-packed and heartwarming read, steeped in richly imagined worlds that are as well-researched as they are fascinating.
- Margaret Kingsbury
This gorgeous, expansive middle grade historical fiction delves into Chinese history through two alternating timelines. As Han Yu traverses ancient China with a poet to sell goods for his ill family, Luli launches a museum to aid her family during the Great Depression in Chinatown, New York City. These two tweens use courage and creativity to support their families, their two storylines becoming increasingly interconnected as the novel progresses. It’s an action-packed and heartwarming read, steeped in richly imagined worlds that are as well-researched as they are fascinating.
- Margaret Kingsbury
July 10, 2025
Reading this book is like entering your favorite restaurant on a cold winter night. It follows the parallel journeys of two kids across different centuries determined to save their families. It’s lovely and whimsical, and reminds us of the magic that can only be found in childhood
August 29, 2025
ARC review!
This book is really good!
It’s really surprising, and a little sad. But the ending is definitely worth it!
I’m definitely going to read this again!
This book is really good!
It’s really surprising, and a little sad. But the ending is definitely worth it!
I’m definitely going to read this again!
October 11, 2025
A lot to love and appreciate about this book! Two storylines from different times and places, China in the 700s and New York in 1931, come together at the end, connecting the characters. Both time periods are rich with historical detail—I wish the author’s note had been an introduction, and I think I would have paid even closer attention to the poetry, art, and places mentioned.
The themes include family love and duty, loyalty to friends, respect and value of culture (including food!), connection to history.
The two main characters are just nice kids trying to help their families through tough times and figure out who they are. But somehow, even at the end, they still felt a little distant to me. While I wanted to see things work out for them, I just didn’t feel strongly invested. For how carefully constructed the two storylines are, I would have expected to feel more emotional attachment to the main characters. Maybe I would have felt differently reading this aloud to my kids, rather than as an audiobook for myself.
This is long though. I think parts could have been consolidated, but it might have lost its epic feel. I don’t think this will appeal to reluctant readers, or readers accustomed to a fast paced plot. This would be an excellent family read aloud though and offers many opportunities to learn about history and culture.
The themes include family love and duty, loyalty to friends, respect and value of culture (including food!), connection to history.
The two main characters are just nice kids trying to help their families through tough times and figure out who they are. But somehow, even at the end, they still felt a little distant to me. While I wanted to see things work out for them, I just didn’t feel strongly invested. For how carefully constructed the two storylines are, I would have expected to feel more emotional attachment to the main characters. Maybe I would have felt differently reading this aloud to my kids, rather than as an audiobook for myself.
This is long though. I think parts could have been consolidated, but it might have lost its epic feel. I don’t think this will appeal to reluctant readers, or readers accustomed to a fast paced plot. This would be an excellent family read aloud though and offers many opportunities to learn about history and culture.
July 9, 2025
Book Report: The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli
At First Glance: A new release from the beloved author of the Vanderbeeker’s series, Karina Yan Glaser… say no more!
The Jist: Two young people…one in 731 China, and one in 1931 Chinatown…on perilous journeys to save their families.
My Thoughts:
“The journey of a thousand li begins with one step.”
Where to begin with this memorable middle grade. A story with friendship at its center… ones we have held and cherished as well as new vulnerable ones that become life long. Han Yu’s and Luli’s stories compliment each other though they are geographically as well as place in time drastically different the same themes of adventure, survival, and culture are mixed and formed like a delicious boa!
Notable:
“…How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“Write poems that make me hold my breath until the very end.”
My question for Karina: If Han Yu and Lilu could travel to present day NYC what would be on their itinerary?
Thank you Harper Kids for sharing this beautiful ARC with me.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
At First Glance: A new release from the beloved author of the Vanderbeeker’s series, Karina Yan Glaser… say no more!
The Jist: Two young people…one in 731 China, and one in 1931 Chinatown…on perilous journeys to save their families.
My Thoughts:
“The journey of a thousand li begins with one step.”
Where to begin with this memorable middle grade. A story with friendship at its center… ones we have held and cherished as well as new vulnerable ones that become life long. Han Yu’s and Luli’s stories compliment each other though they are geographically as well as place in time drastically different the same themes of adventure, survival, and culture are mixed and formed like a delicious boa!
Notable:
“…How do you do that?”
“Do what?”
“Write poems that make me hold my breath until the very end.”
My question for Karina: If Han Yu and Lilu could travel to present day NYC what would be on their itinerary?
Thank you Harper Kids for sharing this beautiful ARC with me.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Lyon.brit.A...
October 1, 2025
4.5 stars
This new middle grade release from a favorite author was wonderful! All of the author’s previous books have been contemporary stories but in this book she delved into historical fiction and did an excellent job with the transition. She has a great author’s note at the end to explain a lot of the research and true elements behind the story.
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli is set in both 731 China and 1931 NYC Chinatown and both timelines depicted brave children trying to save their families from difficult situations. The contrast and similarity of the two time periods really captured the universal feelings of kids and the ways all of our stories influence and touch each other. I loved having characters that felt like actual kids and that showed the great capacity they have for making notable differences in their world.
There is fascinating history, adventure, art appreciation, family and friendship dynamics, plenty of heart, and delicious food that definitely left me craving steamed buns! I also loved the maps and the little drawings throughout the story (which I think I heard that the author did herself!) I would highly recommended this book for a wide range of ages!
This new middle grade release from a favorite author was wonderful! All of the author’s previous books have been contemporary stories but in this book she delved into historical fiction and did an excellent job with the transition. She has a great author’s note at the end to explain a lot of the research and true elements behind the story.
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli is set in both 731 China and 1931 NYC Chinatown and both timelines depicted brave children trying to save their families from difficult situations. The contrast and similarity of the two time periods really captured the universal feelings of kids and the ways all of our stories influence and touch each other. I loved having characters that felt like actual kids and that showed the great capacity they have for making notable differences in their world.
There is fascinating history, adventure, art appreciation, family and friendship dynamics, plenty of heart, and delicious food that definitely left me craving steamed buns! I also loved the maps and the little drawings throughout the story (which I think I heard that the author did herself!) I would highly recommended this book for a wide range of ages!
October 15, 2025
I have a mixed opinion about The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser. The story is actually two stories from two different times and places, one of Han Yu , a young boy who lives in Ancient China, 731, the other of Luli, a young girl who lives in Chinatown, New York City, 1931. The reader begins to see how they are parallel stories and in the end, they come together. Both stories have a lot of historical detail, too. I liked finding out how the stories were connected. But the way the stories alternated, chapter by chapter, became jarring for me - I was just getting involved in one story when it ended. I also did not like the cliff hangers every chapter ended with, it just was too obvious, no subtlety. Maybe that’s why I never completely felt like I knew or was even getting to know Han Yu or Lulu. Just felt like I was being told (not shown) everything. Thinking back on reading this I realize for the first third I was completely engaged, I know this is an unpopular opinion, but I can only give this ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ and only because I appreciate the history and how the storylines come together.
May 9, 2025
STATS
“The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli” by Karina Yan Glaser
Published: 2025
Hardcover: 432 pages
Genre: Middle Grade, Historical Fiction
Independent Reading Age: 8-12 years
Read Aloud Age: 6-16 years
SYNOPSIS
This book is told in dual timelines, Han Yu is a young boy living during the Tang dynasty of ancient China during the Silk Trade Routes, and Luli is a young girl living in Chinatown, New York City during the Great Depression. In alternating chapters, each told from the point of view of either Luli or Han Yu, you follow them through the adversities of their time: Luli overcoming the hardships of the Great Depression, and Han Yu traveling the Silk Trade Routes as a young boy.
MY THOUGHTS
This book immediately intrigued me. I love the cover, the contrasting color choice and how the images of the two storylines are represented and weaved together. I also really appreciated the author’s note at the beginning of the book. Before the story starts, Karina Yan Glaser shares where her inspiration came from in writing this story. Her love of tea time and dim sum growing up intrigued her to look into the history of dim sum. When she did and learned the roots went back to the Silk Trade Route she immediately saw a story she wanted to share. For me, that author note in the beginning of the book was the promise made to me to keep reading. That promise, that my reading of this book would get rewarded with learning how dim sum started kept me flipping the pages. I have memories of my early dating years with my husband that involved dim sum, so such as promise was dear to my heart. Not all of my questions about the history of dim sum was answered within the pages of this story, but it whetted my appetite to research future on my own.
The story itself is gentle told in short chapters. This is a great book that can reach both a young audience as well as an older audience. The middle grade novels are often advertised for those between the ages of 8-12 years old. But this book makes a good family read aloud because it reaches younger than 8 years old and even older than 12 years old. I appreciated how the dual storylines each had their own plot arch, but still fit together nicely in terms of pacing and content.
For the older audience, they will be more mature and observant and find it interesting to see how the the two dual storylines mirror each other. Its not in a super obvious way. But for the observant reader they can see echos of images of aspect imprinted from Ancient China to Chinatown, New York City. This also would make it a good reread for those who like to discover those things.
At the end of the book the author shares more about the historical aspect of the book, which parts are true and which parts are fiction. As a mom I appreciated this part of the book. I also appreciated the bibliography that was also included for those who might want to do more reading in any specific historical aspect of the story. I would have loved if the bibliography was taken a set further and a specific book recommendation reading list was giving, aimed at the reading level of the audience (ages 8-12) that highlighted each of these aspects: dim sum, silk art, Ancient Chinese poetry.
RECOMMENDATION
Personally, this book would be a great book for a book club spanning a wide age range. It’s hard to find a book that reaches both younger and older audiences. It has many historical elements that is also fun for the teacher or homeschool mom to pull out for specific activities. And as someone living in Asia, it is always a win when an another good book comes out that is set in Asia. Now I want dim sum.
(NOTE: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of the book. Thank you
“The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli” by Karina Yan Glaser
Published: 2025
Hardcover: 432 pages
Genre: Middle Grade, Historical Fiction
Independent Reading Age: 8-12 years
Read Aloud Age: 6-16 years
SYNOPSIS
This book is told in dual timelines, Han Yu is a young boy living during the Tang dynasty of ancient China during the Silk Trade Routes, and Luli is a young girl living in Chinatown, New York City during the Great Depression. In alternating chapters, each told from the point of view of either Luli or Han Yu, you follow them through the adversities of their time: Luli overcoming the hardships of the Great Depression, and Han Yu traveling the Silk Trade Routes as a young boy.
MY THOUGHTS
This book immediately intrigued me. I love the cover, the contrasting color choice and how the images of the two storylines are represented and weaved together. I also really appreciated the author’s note at the beginning of the book. Before the story starts, Karina Yan Glaser shares where her inspiration came from in writing this story. Her love of tea time and dim sum growing up intrigued her to look into the history of dim sum. When she did and learned the roots went back to the Silk Trade Route she immediately saw a story she wanted to share. For me, that author note in the beginning of the book was the promise made to me to keep reading. That promise, that my reading of this book would get rewarded with learning how dim sum started kept me flipping the pages. I have memories of my early dating years with my husband that involved dim sum, so such as promise was dear to my heart. Not all of my questions about the history of dim sum was answered within the pages of this story, but it whetted my appetite to research future on my own.
The story itself is gentle told in short chapters. This is a great book that can reach both a young audience as well as an older audience. The middle grade novels are often advertised for those between the ages of 8-12 years old. But this book makes a good family read aloud because it reaches younger than 8 years old and even older than 12 years old. I appreciated how the dual storylines each had their own plot arch, but still fit together nicely in terms of pacing and content.
For the older audience, they will be more mature and observant and find it interesting to see how the the two dual storylines mirror each other. Its not in a super obvious way. But for the observant reader they can see echos of images of aspect imprinted from Ancient China to Chinatown, New York City. This also would make it a good reread for those who like to discover those things.
At the end of the book the author shares more about the historical aspect of the book, which parts are true and which parts are fiction. As a mom I appreciated this part of the book. I also appreciated the bibliography that was also included for those who might want to do more reading in any specific historical aspect of the story. I would have loved if the bibliography was taken a set further and a specific book recommendation reading list was giving, aimed at the reading level of the audience (ages 8-12) that highlighted each of these aspects: dim sum, silk art, Ancient Chinese poetry.
RECOMMENDATION
Personally, this book would be a great book for a book club spanning a wide age range. It’s hard to find a book that reaches both younger and older audiences. It has many historical elements that is also fun for the teacher or homeschool mom to pull out for specific activities. And as someone living in Asia, it is always a win when an another good book comes out that is set in Asia. Now I want dim sum.
(NOTE: I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review of the book. Thank you
December 26, 2025
This is one of favorite children's books of 2025 with two persistant and confident protagonists living 1,2oo years a part. Han Yu lives in Chang'An, China in the year 931 during the Tang dynasty, and Luli lives in Chinatown, New York in 1931. What connects them are steamed buns, a bolt of silk, and family troubles. Han Yu family has been quarantined because lung ailment and he must take his father's goods on the Silk Road to sell them. Luli's family is living during the Great Depression and her parents struggle to pay their morgage, so she wants to chip in and help save their restaurant and apartment building. Readers will learn the hazards of traveling and trading on the Silk Road and how familys had to figure out to find work or other ways to earn money to get by in time where people had very little and very few job opportunities. Author notes explain some of the actual history of Tang dynasty and the Silk Road and depression era New York City. Recommended for middle grade readers who like historical fiction.
November 14, 2025
I loved this book SO much! It was so lovely. The writing was beautiful and the storyline itself was fantastic. The themes of bravery, friendship and family were so beautiful, there were times I wanted to cry. Usually, when a story does different timelines, I tend to be invested in one storyline more than the other. But these two were equally engaging.
There are themes of Chinese folklore and superstitions but they are not overt nor are they offensive. There are a couple instances of violence (Luli’s uncle is attacked when his store is burglarized and there are people who do not want Hui to succeed), but it isn’t graphic.
There are themes of Chinese folklore and superstitions but they are not overt nor are they offensive. There are a couple instances of violence (Luli’s uncle is attacked when his store is burglarized and there are people who do not want Hui to succeed), but it isn’t graphic.
July 4, 2025
Karina Yan Glaser brings her trademark style of likable and relatable kids who persevere and are resilient, as they try and save their families. Han Yu and Luli are two kids, one from Tang dynasty in China and the other in 1930s, NYC, yet share a mysterious link. Both have to leave their homes and journey into a bigger world to help their families. This is engaging and exciting and will soon be a classic.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
I received an arc from the publisher but all opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
A beautiful weaving together of two seemingly unrelated, yet both compelling, stories of Chinese history--one, an ancient journey along the Chinese Silk Roads Trading Route, and the other, about all of the people who live in the building that houses the Silk Roads Gift Shop and Museum, and the Jade Palace Restaurant in New York City's struggling 1930s Chinatown. And, the Metropolitan Museum of Art plays a role! Could it get any better? I just love historical fiction.
November 4, 2025
This book was so so sad when I heard of Luli's families bussiness crashing down. And when I heard of all of han yu's problems, like the sickness, I nearly cried! I was so glad when Du fu showed up. And the Tiger! that was so creative! If you read this, I assure you that you won't be dissapointed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 11, 2025
This is a very special book! My family and I really enjoyed this one and look forward to re-reading it. It has touched our hearts and minds and it's one we'll certainly remember!
December 30, 2025
One of my favorite books of 2025.
November 5, 2025
Amazing dual POV and dual timelines story. I learned so much about the Silk Road because I kept looking up stuff after reading parts of the story.
November 25, 2025
Luli lives in New York city’s Chinatown in 1931 as her family struggles with the Great Depression. Han Yu is from the 8th century and when his family is quarantined from a plague in the city he sets off to support his family financially and look for a cure. His experiences are more auspicious and tied with folk lore. A silk cloth ties the stories together as both learn about loyalty and family responsibilities.
November 18, 2025
Richie’s Picks: THE NINE MOONS OF HAN YU AND LULI by Karina Yan Glaser, HarperCollins/Allida, September 2025, 432p., ISBN: 978-0-06-328443-2
“Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them, just for one day”
– David Bowie, “Heroes” (1977)
Chang’An, Ancient China
29th Day of the 8th Moon Cycle, 731
“The illness began with a persistent cough, which steadily worsened over the course of a few moon cycles. Then fevers and chills would set in, and at that point the person became too weak to get out of bed and possessed no appetite. There were no known treatments for the disease. Even Falong, Han Yu’s aunt, who was renowned throughout Chang’An for her herbal remedies, was bewildered by how to help her growing number of patients.
Customers became sparse, and business slowed. The weight of the coppers they brought home became lighter and lighter. Baba’s hair began to gray as he fretted about the sharp decrease in business. Dark smudges appeared under Mama’s eyes as she worried about the disease wrapping its hands around the lungs of their friends and neighbors.
Then everyone’s deepest worries were realized.
Li had struggled with her health since she was young. Every year she would get a spring cold, followed by a summer cold, then an autumn one. But the worst was always the winter, when the frigid winds seeped through the cracks of their home and attacked her fragile body. When the new disease started spreading throughout Chang’An, Mama suggested that Li stay home from her apprenticeship with Falong.
‘I am fine, Mama,’ Li insisted.
Li continued going to her apprenticeship through the summer, when thousands of people in Chang’An began dying from the mysterious lung disease. Then, during the hottest part of the season, Li also fell ill. For the last three moon cycles, Han Yu had woken up to the harsh, terrible sound of Li’s coughing.”
Chinatown, New York City
Thursday, October 8, 1931
“A lot had happened in the four years since receiving the news that her parents were so close to owning 59 Mott Street. Back then, there were lines of customers circling the block, waiting to get inside for Sunday afternoon dim sum or weeknight dinners. The Silk Roads Gift Shop used to be crowded with people buying bamboo chopsticks and delicately painted porcelain bowls and silk pajamas embroidered with colorful flowers.
Not anymore, Luli thought as she finished dusting the register on the counter. She looked around the lonely gift shop, empty of customers. Many shelves were bare because Quong [her uncle] could not afford to replenish their inventory. A glance outside the dusty window confirmed that there were no customers linked up and eagerly waiting for a table at Jade Palace Restaurant.
Luli knew that something was wrong–she had known for many months. She saw it in lines etched around her parents’ eyes, and she observed it in the restless way Yiyi [the chef] paced the kitchen. She saw it in the way the menu changed from a page filled with dozens of delectable options to just a few dishes as food prices continued to rise and rise. Her father, who had been so dedicated to the restaurant, had now taken to disappearing every morning and not returning until dinner.”
THE NINE MOONS OF HAN YU AND LULI features two alternating narratives, set twelve-hundred years apart. In each, eleven-year-old lead characters take it upon themselves to try, through extraordinary means, to save the day for their respective families during the crises they each face. The alternating chapters are short, and so many of them end in cliffhangers that I was repeatedly holding my breath through one chapter or another, waiting to get back to the other character and find out what would befall them next.
The first of the intertwining tales is set in ancient China, during a great respiratory sickness that is killing so many, and that we understand today as having been a tuberculosis epidemic. Han Yu eventually finds himself the only one in his immediate family who has not been quarantined due to the deadly sickness. Suddenly, faced with the possibility of helping the family financially, he ends up embarking on an impossible, mind-blowing journey.
The second narrative is set in 1931 in New York City’s Chinatown during the Great Depression. There, with the crashed economy and the family restaurant eventually forced to close, Luli seeks a way to help her parents save the building that the extended family lives and works in–and which is so close to being paid off–from being foreclosed upon.
Will the tweens succeed in their respective quests?
Over the course of the two stories, we will, in fact, discover connections between the two main characters. But there is something particularly different and magical about Han Yu. The book opens with the tale of the tiger that inexplicably appeared to him and his mother at their little family garden when Han Yu was but a few days old. Throughout the book, many characters become fascinated with the “tiger boy” who domestic animals and a trio of birds follow without urging or training.
A breathtaking, first-rate adventure story for young readers wrapped inside a standout, well-researched piece of historical fiction, THE NINE MOONS OF HAN YU AND LULI is one of the best and most exciting reads of 2025.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
https://www.facebook.com/richiespicks/
richiepartington@gmail.com
“Though nothing will drive them away
We can beat them, just for one day”
– David Bowie, “Heroes” (1977)
Chang’An, Ancient China
29th Day of the 8th Moon Cycle, 731
“The illness began with a persistent cough, which steadily worsened over the course of a few moon cycles. Then fevers and chills would set in, and at that point the person became too weak to get out of bed and possessed no appetite. There were no known treatments for the disease. Even Falong, Han Yu’s aunt, who was renowned throughout Chang’An for her herbal remedies, was bewildered by how to help her growing number of patients.
Customers became sparse, and business slowed. The weight of the coppers they brought home became lighter and lighter. Baba’s hair began to gray as he fretted about the sharp decrease in business. Dark smudges appeared under Mama’s eyes as she worried about the disease wrapping its hands around the lungs of their friends and neighbors.
Then everyone’s deepest worries were realized.
Li had struggled with her health since she was young. Every year she would get a spring cold, followed by a summer cold, then an autumn one. But the worst was always the winter, when the frigid winds seeped through the cracks of their home and attacked her fragile body. When the new disease started spreading throughout Chang’An, Mama suggested that Li stay home from her apprenticeship with Falong.
‘I am fine, Mama,’ Li insisted.
Li continued going to her apprenticeship through the summer, when thousands of people in Chang’An began dying from the mysterious lung disease. Then, during the hottest part of the season, Li also fell ill. For the last three moon cycles, Han Yu had woken up to the harsh, terrible sound of Li’s coughing.”
Chinatown, New York City
Thursday, October 8, 1931
“A lot had happened in the four years since receiving the news that her parents were so close to owning 59 Mott Street. Back then, there were lines of customers circling the block, waiting to get inside for Sunday afternoon dim sum or weeknight dinners. The Silk Roads Gift Shop used to be crowded with people buying bamboo chopsticks and delicately painted porcelain bowls and silk pajamas embroidered with colorful flowers.
Not anymore, Luli thought as she finished dusting the register on the counter. She looked around the lonely gift shop, empty of customers. Many shelves were bare because Quong [her uncle] could not afford to replenish their inventory. A glance outside the dusty window confirmed that there were no customers linked up and eagerly waiting for a table at Jade Palace Restaurant.
Luli knew that something was wrong–she had known for many months. She saw it in lines etched around her parents’ eyes, and she observed it in the restless way Yiyi [the chef] paced the kitchen. She saw it in the way the menu changed from a page filled with dozens of delectable options to just a few dishes as food prices continued to rise and rise. Her father, who had been so dedicated to the restaurant, had now taken to disappearing every morning and not returning until dinner.”
THE NINE MOONS OF HAN YU AND LULI features two alternating narratives, set twelve-hundred years apart. In each, eleven-year-old lead characters take it upon themselves to try, through extraordinary means, to save the day for their respective families during the crises they each face. The alternating chapters are short, and so many of them end in cliffhangers that I was repeatedly holding my breath through one chapter or another, waiting to get back to the other character and find out what would befall them next.
The first of the intertwining tales is set in ancient China, during a great respiratory sickness that is killing so many, and that we understand today as having been a tuberculosis epidemic. Han Yu eventually finds himself the only one in his immediate family who has not been quarantined due to the deadly sickness. Suddenly, faced with the possibility of helping the family financially, he ends up embarking on an impossible, mind-blowing journey.
The second narrative is set in 1931 in New York City’s Chinatown during the Great Depression. There, with the crashed economy and the family restaurant eventually forced to close, Luli seeks a way to help her parents save the building that the extended family lives and works in–and which is so close to being paid off–from being foreclosed upon.
Will the tweens succeed in their respective quests?
Over the course of the two stories, we will, in fact, discover connections between the two main characters. But there is something particularly different and magical about Han Yu. The book opens with the tale of the tiger that inexplicably appeared to him and his mother at their little family garden when Han Yu was but a few days old. Throughout the book, many characters become fascinated with the “tiger boy” who domestic animals and a trio of birds follow without urging or training.
A breathtaking, first-rate adventure story for young readers wrapped inside a standout, well-researched piece of historical fiction, THE NINE MOONS OF HAN YU AND LULI is one of the best and most exciting reads of 2025.
Richie Partington, MLIS
Richie's Picks http://richiespicks.pbworks.com
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richiepartington@gmail.com
August 12, 2025
Phenomenal book!!
October 31, 2025
This compelling historical novel consists of two parallel stories set 1200 years apart. In 731, in Chang’An, China, young Han Yu’s community is beset by a devastating lung disease. His beloved sister is very ill, and his parents and brothers are quarantined, so Han Yu decides to undertake his father’s work, traveling the Silk Road to deliver goods to a merchant hundreds of miles away. Han Yu is called “Tiger Boy” because of an unusual encounter in his infancy, and he has a curious connection with all types of animals. Accompanied by his dog, three magpies, and the camel he has rescued from a cruel neighbor, Han Yu sets out on a journey that he hopes will restore his family’s physical and financial well-being, but becomes a quest for his own spiritual growth. Along the way, he encounters villainous travelers, kindly innkeepers, Buddhist monks, and most significantly, is joined on his trek by a young man named Du Fu, whose character is based on a real Chinese poet of the era.
In 1931 in New York City, Luli Lee and her parents live in a Chinatown apartment building along with family friend Quong and his nephew Sam, and Yiyi, a chef. The building is also home to Luli's family restaurant and a gift shop and Chinese museum owned by Quong. Luli’s parents have worked hard for years to pay off the mortgage on the property, but the effects of the Depression are now taking hold - business is slow, and the adults are working extra jobs just to make ends meet. Luli learns about her parents’ sacrifices and she is determined to do her part - a commitment that leads her to drop out of school and work with the grumpy Yiyi to master the art of dim sum and sell steamed buns from a cart. She also spends a lot of time with Sam and Quong restoring the small museum, where a small piece of silk that appears to have a Tang Dynasty poem painted on it provides a connection to the past and a chance for a brighter future.
Han Yu’s and Luli’s stories unroll like a scroll of Chinese artwork: short, alternating chapters in the third person relate their journeys over the same nine month time span in their respective era. Astute readers will start to see connections between the two stories early on, in the important roles that animals, art, family, and food (both making it and sharing it) play in both children’s lives. But the storylines themselves have a number of similarities. Both families face significant hardship and Han Yu and Luli, despite their youth and inexperience, take brave and bold risks for those they love. Both characters cross paths with some shady figures along the way, but they’re also guided by supportive adults and form unexpected friendships that ultimately reshape the course of their lives.
Han Yu’s journey has a slightly mystical overtone, as he seems to be followed by a tiger that others see but he never does, and he seeks some healing medicine that only some are able to acquire. But his story is still very much grounded in reality. Luli’s interest in history and Chinese culture provides another connection between the two stories, as she is researching what Han Yu is experiencing. The short chapters end in cliffhangers, keeping both stories moving. Readers will learn a lot about history, and Karina Yan Glaser has included an author’s note and a bibliography for further context on the Silk Road, Chinatown, art history, and her inspirations for the book. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
In 1931 in New York City, Luli Lee and her parents live in a Chinatown apartment building along with family friend Quong and his nephew Sam, and Yiyi, a chef. The building is also home to Luli's family restaurant and a gift shop and Chinese museum owned by Quong. Luli’s parents have worked hard for years to pay off the mortgage on the property, but the effects of the Depression are now taking hold - business is slow, and the adults are working extra jobs just to make ends meet. Luli learns about her parents’ sacrifices and she is determined to do her part - a commitment that leads her to drop out of school and work with the grumpy Yiyi to master the art of dim sum and sell steamed buns from a cart. She also spends a lot of time with Sam and Quong restoring the small museum, where a small piece of silk that appears to have a Tang Dynasty poem painted on it provides a connection to the past and a chance for a brighter future.
Han Yu’s and Luli’s stories unroll like a scroll of Chinese artwork: short, alternating chapters in the third person relate their journeys over the same nine month time span in their respective era. Astute readers will start to see connections between the two stories early on, in the important roles that animals, art, family, and food (both making it and sharing it) play in both children’s lives. But the storylines themselves have a number of similarities. Both families face significant hardship and Han Yu and Luli, despite their youth and inexperience, take brave and bold risks for those they love. Both characters cross paths with some shady figures along the way, but they’re also guided by supportive adults and form unexpected friendships that ultimately reshape the course of their lives.
Han Yu’s journey has a slightly mystical overtone, as he seems to be followed by a tiger that others see but he never does, and he seeks some healing medicine that only some are able to acquire. But his story is still very much grounded in reality. Luli’s interest in history and Chinese culture provides another connection between the two stories, as she is researching what Han Yu is experiencing. The short chapters end in cliffhangers, keeping both stories moving. Readers will learn a lot about history, and Karina Yan Glaser has included an author’s note and a bibliography for further context on the Silk Road, Chinatown, art history, and her inspirations for the book. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
September 26, 2025
“Difficult things are happening all over,’ she said. ‘But we have each other to lean on. Isn’t that something wonderful?”
The lives of Han Yu—a young boy living in ancient Chang’An and selling steamed buns—and Luli—a young schoolgirl in New York’s 1931 Chinatown—could not seem more different. Separated by vast swaths of time and space, they appear to live in two entirely separate worlds. However, people are far more intertwined than one might think. When the familiar routines and patterns of their lives are suddenly disrupted by uncontrollable forces, Han Yu and Luli are both forced to find ways to rescue what, or who, they love most. Han Yu must make a grand, terrifying journey outside of his home city all on his own, while Luli must undertake the tremendous task of helping her family keep their beloved home and restaurant. As they both venture out into the world, they discover their inner strength and the connective power of art.
Though I originally signed up for the magical tigers and mouth-watering descriptions of dim sum, what I got was so much more than that. In The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli, Karina Yan Glaser tells a beautiful tale of family, friendship, culture, and personal growth. With fable-like prose and charming interior illustrations, Glaser gracefully guides her characters (and readers) through trials and tribulations, sharing Chinese art and culture in accessible ways as she does so. I was impressed with Glaser’s ability to educate without becoming stiff or didactic, and enjoyed the genuine humor interspersed throughout the narrative. I also appreciated the fact that she paid respect to all careers and skills, and that the characters slowly came to love their own unique (non-magical) abilities, recognizing the ways they can effect change in the world no matter how insignificant they may feel. Speaking of the characters, their determination despite their struggles made me greatly admire them. Han Yu makes a miraculous journey across mountains and deserts, but he does it scared. He’s always worried about making a mistake, failing his family, etc., but he perseveres nonetheless. Luli creates a mini museum from scratch, starts selling food from a pushcart all on her own, and brokers a deal with an art dealer at the MET, but isn’t confident in her ability to do any of that until the end of the story; she lets her love of her family and their community outweigh her fear. Together, Han Yu and Luli left a warm impression on my heart and are sure to do the same for every other reader who encounters them.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Allida for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at www.pinereadsreview.com for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
The lives of Han Yu—a young boy living in ancient Chang’An and selling steamed buns—and Luli—a young schoolgirl in New York’s 1931 Chinatown—could not seem more different. Separated by vast swaths of time and space, they appear to live in two entirely separate worlds. However, people are far more intertwined than one might think. When the familiar routines and patterns of their lives are suddenly disrupted by uncontrollable forces, Han Yu and Luli are both forced to find ways to rescue what, or who, they love most. Han Yu must make a grand, terrifying journey outside of his home city all on his own, while Luli must undertake the tremendous task of helping her family keep their beloved home and restaurant. As they both venture out into the world, they discover their inner strength and the connective power of art.
Though I originally signed up for the magical tigers and mouth-watering descriptions of dim sum, what I got was so much more than that. In The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli, Karina Yan Glaser tells a beautiful tale of family, friendship, culture, and personal growth. With fable-like prose and charming interior illustrations, Glaser gracefully guides her characters (and readers) through trials and tribulations, sharing Chinese art and culture in accessible ways as she does so. I was impressed with Glaser’s ability to educate without becoming stiff or didactic, and enjoyed the genuine humor interspersed throughout the narrative. I also appreciated the fact that she paid respect to all careers and skills, and that the characters slowly came to love their own unique (non-magical) abilities, recognizing the ways they can effect change in the world no matter how insignificant they may feel. Speaking of the characters, their determination despite their struggles made me greatly admire them. Han Yu makes a miraculous journey across mountains and deserts, but he does it scared. He’s always worried about making a mistake, failing his family, etc., but he perseveres nonetheless. Luli creates a mini museum from scratch, starts selling food from a pushcart all on her own, and brokers a deal with an art dealer at the MET, but isn’t confident in her ability to do any of that until the end of the story; she lets her love of her family and their community outweigh her fear. Together, Han Yu and Luli left a warm impression on my heart and are sure to do the same for every other reader who encounters them.
Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and Allida for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Any quotes are taken from an advanced copy and may be subject to change before final publication.
Follow us on Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and Facebook @pinereadsreview, and check out our website at www.pinereadsreview.com for reviews, author interviews, blogs, podcast episodes, and more!
May 19, 2025
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
In alternating timelines, we get two stories; that of Han Yu's journey from Chang'An to Tianshui in 731 when his merchant father is unable to make a delivery because of a widespread contagious respiratory infection, and Luli Lee who is living in New York City with her parents, who run a restaurant and apartment building where her best friend Sam's father has the Silk Road Gift Shop.
Han Yu feels that his only skill is making steamed dumplings, but when the chance presents itself, he undertakes a treacherous journey to secure his family's finances. He buys an abused camel, Lotus, and is also accompanied by a stray dog, Lok. After being scammed out of some of his money, he runs into Du Fu, who helps him after his cart cracks. Han Yu has a reputation as a Tiger Boy, because he seems to be able to communicate with animals. When he finally delivers the goods and gets paid, he buys a small quantity of silk to take back home. He tries to locate healing grasses to take back to his family, and is eventually successful. Du Fu, who writes many beautiful poems, decorates the silks that Han Yu has with his work.
Luli's family is in danger of losing their livlihood because of the Great Depression. No one is eating out, or buying things at the gift shop. The mother goes to work sewing garments, and the restaurant is eventually closed down. Luli, who has been attending Catholic school, is appalled that her parents are spending $5 a month to send her, and quits school. She and Sam sell steamed dumplings to try to raise funds, and the mortgage is barely paid each month. While still in school, her class has visited the art museum, where she sees ancient Tang Dynasty scrolls that look a lot like ones her family has. An art dealer looks at them, and criminals target the family. Luli gets a reward for apprehending one of them, which saves the building for another month, and when the silks turn out to be the work of Du Fu, the museum buys them for $6,000, and the Lees are secure in their possession of the building.
There are sources and notes at the end of the book. I'm not a huge fan of going back and forth in time, but it's interesting to see the connection between Han Yu and Luli. This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Park's A Single S
In alternating timelines, we get two stories; that of Han Yu's journey from Chang'An to Tianshui in 731 when his merchant father is unable to make a delivery because of a widespread contagious respiratory infection, and Luli Lee who is living in New York City with her parents, who run a restaurant and apartment building where her best friend Sam's father has the Silk Road Gift Shop.
Han Yu feels that his only skill is making steamed dumplings, but when the chance presents itself, he undertakes a treacherous journey to secure his family's finances. He buys an abused camel, Lotus, and is also accompanied by a stray dog, Lok. After being scammed out of some of his money, he runs into Du Fu, who helps him after his cart cracks. Han Yu has a reputation as a Tiger Boy, because he seems to be able to communicate with animals. When he finally delivers the goods and gets paid, he buys a small quantity of silk to take back home. He tries to locate healing grasses to take back to his family, and is eventually successful. Du Fu, who writes many beautiful poems, decorates the silks that Han Yu has with his work.
Luli's family is in danger of losing their livlihood because of the Great Depression. No one is eating out, or buying things at the gift shop. The mother goes to work sewing garments, and the restaurant is eventually closed down. Luli, who has been attending Catholic school, is appalled that her parents are spending $5 a month to send her, and quits school. She and Sam sell steamed dumplings to try to raise funds, and the mortgage is barely paid each month. While still in school, her class has visited the art museum, where she sees ancient Tang Dynasty scrolls that look a lot like ones her family has. An art dealer looks at them, and criminals target the family. Luli gets a reward for apprehending one of them, which saves the building for another month, and when the silks turn out to be the work of Du Fu, the museum buys them for $6,000, and the Lees are secure in their possession of the building.
There are sources and notes at the end of the book. I'm not a huge fan of going back and forth in time, but it's interesting to see the connection between Han Yu and Luli. This is a good choice for readers who enjoyed Park's A Single S
November 4, 2025
I really enjoyed the author’s previous book series about the Vanderbeeker family in New York City. It’s more of a middle school story but still fun! I fell in love with the family and the problems that they solve creatively in each book. The sense of community in NYC. The family ties as well as local neighborhood ties. The author knows how to make each character stand out in their own way. She really did a superb job with that book series. I highly recommend it.
This book I would say is another middle school type story. The main character, Luli lives during the depression era in 1931. She is in fifth grade. Her story is about her and her family in Chinatown in New York City facing financial challenges.
The other main character, Han Yu is a boy in ancient China. He is facing illness in his family and a long journey on the silk trade route. Disasters happen but also there are friendly people along the way that help him. His story is definitely one of courage. I like how the author wove some magical realism elements in his story as he has a way with animals and a guardian tiger he never sees but other people see when the time is right.
Luli is facing challenges as well. Her family’s business is not doing well economically. She wants to find ways to help her family pay the mortgage and not lose their business or the building they live in. Both these stories weave together the challenges that they face and their ingenuity in solving them.
Overall, I thought the storylines were well written and engaging. At the end of the audiobook that I listened to, the author talked about different historical points in the stories that she based these stories on which was very informative. The biggest thing is the sense of love with these children and their families as well as the communities that they live in.
At the end of the book, she also brings together both stories in a unique way, which I thought was a very fitting ending.
This book I would say is another middle school type story. The main character, Luli lives during the depression era in 1931. She is in fifth grade. Her story is about her and her family in Chinatown in New York City facing financial challenges.
The other main character, Han Yu is a boy in ancient China. He is facing illness in his family and a long journey on the silk trade route. Disasters happen but also there are friendly people along the way that help him. His story is definitely one of courage. I like how the author wove some magical realism elements in his story as he has a way with animals and a guardian tiger he never sees but other people see when the time is right.
Luli is facing challenges as well. Her family’s business is not doing well economically. She wants to find ways to help her family pay the mortgage and not lose their business or the building they live in. Both these stories weave together the challenges that they face and their ingenuity in solving them.
Overall, I thought the storylines were well written and engaging. At the end of the audiobook that I listened to, the author talked about different historical points in the stories that she based these stories on which was very informative. The biggest thing is the sense of love with these children and their families as well as the communities that they live in.
At the end of the book, she also brings together both stories in a unique way, which I thought was a very fitting ending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 23, 2025
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser is not just a book; it is also a magic portal, which allowed me to watch two stories play out with impeccable pacing so that I was able to give both of them my full attention. Han Yu lives in China in the year 731 CE, while Luli Lee lives in Chinatown, NYC, in 1931. Both are part of close families, but their communities are facing enormous struggles - Han Yu’s family is quarantined with a terrible illness, and Luli’s family faces foreclosure of their restaurant during the Great Depression. Karina is gifted at writing characters with resilience, determination, loyalty, and creativity, and these characters’ hearts shine through as they find the courage to help their families, facing one obstacle after another. Both Han Yu and Luli are kind and open-hearted, and both find that they are never truly alone, that there are always friends, family, and community that will stand with them and help them when they refuse to give up. I will not reveal how these stories are connected, but readers will definitely feel their stomachs growling and their curiosity piqued as they read about the foods, the sights, the sounds, and the poetry that connect us through generations, across continents, and between hearts. There were tears in my eyes as I finished this exquisite book, but my heart feels full of hope, which is always needed in this world.
Many thanks to the author for sharing an advanced copy for review. I look forward to welcoming this wonderful book into the world and putting into the hands of readers!
April 4, 2025
Ah, this is such a gorgeous, expansive middle grade historical fiction, that's just so very delightful. Each chapter switches between two perspectives and two timelines. In 731 China, tween Han Yu, who is beloved by any and all animals, helps his father sell steamed buns in the marketplace. When an illness spreads and his entire family falls ill, Han decides to make a long trip to sell goods to help his family, and possibly find the mythic healing grasses he's heard of. On the way, he befriends a poet, Du Fu, who was a real poet!
Meanwhile, in 1931 Chinatown, NYC, Luli and her family are trying to make ends meet during the Great Depression. They only have five more years left to pay on their building's mortgage, where they run a restaurant and rent out rooms to locals and to a Chinese gift store, where Luli spends much of her time. But no one is coming to the restaurant and store anymore. Luli decides she'll help by creating a museum with the Chinese artifacts that have been passed down generations, but the artifacts attract a thief.
Despite the two very different timelines, the chapters pair so well together, interconnecting more and more as the novel progresses. The chapters are short and end on cliffhangers, so even though this is over 400 pages—long for a middle grade—it reads swiftly. I had trouble putting it down! And Karina did so much research! Most of the places and many of the people were real.
This is such a wonderful book; I hope it finds many readers, and inspires them to learn more about Chinese culture and history.
Meanwhile, in 1931 Chinatown, NYC, Luli and her family are trying to make ends meet during the Great Depression. They only have five more years left to pay on their building's mortgage, where they run a restaurant and rent out rooms to locals and to a Chinese gift store, where Luli spends much of her time. But no one is coming to the restaurant and store anymore. Luli decides she'll help by creating a museum with the Chinese artifacts that have been passed down generations, but the artifacts attract a thief.
Despite the two very different timelines, the chapters pair so well together, interconnecting more and more as the novel progresses. The chapters are short and end on cliffhangers, so even though this is over 400 pages—long for a middle grade—it reads swiftly. I had trouble putting it down! And Karina did so much research! Most of the places and many of the people were real.
This is such a wonderful book; I hope it finds many readers, and inspires them to learn more about Chinese culture and history.
June 17, 2025
📚 Book Review: The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli by Karina Yan Glaser
As a devoted fan of Karina Yan Glaser's work, I was thrilled to receive an ARC of The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli through NetGalley. A heartfelt thank you to @NetGalley and @harpercollinchin for this opportunity.
This historical fiction novel intertwines two captivating stories: Han Yu's journey along the Silk Road in ancient China and Luli's life in 1930s New York during the Great Depression. Their tales are connected by a piece of silk, a poem, and steamed buns, weaving a tapestry of adventure and resilience.
What I Loved:
❤️ Han Yu's Gentle Spirit: His deep love for his family and the animals he cares for, including the camel down the lane, is truly touching.
❤️ Luli's Compassion: Her selflessness, from helping her family's business to feeding stray animals, showcases her kind heart.
❤️ Community and Family Bonds: Both characters are surrounded by supportive, generous individuals, highlighting the importance of community.
❤️ Universal Themes: Despite the different settings and eras, both Han Yu and Luli embark on quests to help their families, reflecting the timeless power of love and sacrifice.
Karina Yan Glaser (@katrinaisreadingandwritiing) masterfully portrays how ordinary people, even in challenging times, can find strength and unity through love. This novel is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and family.
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli will be released on September 16, 2025. I highly recommend pre-ordering this book to ensure it graces your bookshelf.
As a devoted fan of Karina Yan Glaser's work, I was thrilled to receive an ARC of The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli through NetGalley. A heartfelt thank you to @NetGalley and @harpercollinchin for this opportunity.
This historical fiction novel intertwines two captivating stories: Han Yu's journey along the Silk Road in ancient China and Luli's life in 1930s New York during the Great Depression. Their tales are connected by a piece of silk, a poem, and steamed buns, weaving a tapestry of adventure and resilience.
What I Loved:
❤️ Han Yu's Gentle Spirit: His deep love for his family and the animals he cares for, including the camel down the lane, is truly touching.
❤️ Luli's Compassion: Her selflessness, from helping her family's business to feeding stray animals, showcases her kind heart.
❤️ Community and Family Bonds: Both characters are surrounded by supportive, generous individuals, highlighting the importance of community.
❤️ Universal Themes: Despite the different settings and eras, both Han Yu and Luli embark on quests to help their families, reflecting the timeless power of love and sacrifice.
Karina Yan Glaser (@katrinaisreadingandwritiing) masterfully portrays how ordinary people, even in challenging times, can find strength and unity through love. This novel is a testament to the enduring spirit of community and family.
The Nine Moons of Han Yu and Luli will be released on September 16, 2025. I highly recommend pre-ordering this book to ensure it graces your bookshelf.
July 4, 2025
In Ancient China, the mysterious tiger boy, Han Yu, must set out on an adventure to save the people he loves. In 1931 China Town, future restaurant owner and current art-lover, Luli, must find a way to save the place she loves. Told in alternating chapters, the stories of these two courageous young people parallel each other in magical, magnificent ways with a connection that bridges both time and place and endures long after the last page is turned.
I loved both timelines of this story. First, Han Yu, who works selling steam buns with his father in Ancient China until a plague comes to their village and threatens all he holds dear. His character arc is wonderful to watch as he must face challenges, overcome obstacles, and find himself along his journey. I also loved the bit of magic and mystery that peppers his timeline: not enough that I would call this magical realism, but just a little sprinkling. Then, Luli, in depression-era China Town. Although her situation is different, much of the courage and heart she shows is similar, and together these two stories are filled with wonderful examples of bravery, determination, and love for family. And the thing that binds these two stories together... It's done so well. I was so worried that this was going to go in another direction, but it was perfect.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys middle grade historical fiction, is interested in Chinese culture, or just wants a really good read.
I loved both timelines of this story. First, Han Yu, who works selling steam buns with his father in Ancient China until a plague comes to their village and threatens all he holds dear. His character arc is wonderful to watch as he must face challenges, overcome obstacles, and find himself along his journey. I also loved the bit of magic and mystery that peppers his timeline: not enough that I would call this magical realism, but just a little sprinkling. Then, Luli, in depression-era China Town. Although her situation is different, much of the courage and heart she shows is similar, and together these two stories are filled with wonderful examples of bravery, determination, and love for family. And the thing that binds these two stories together... It's done so well. I was so worried that this was going to go in another direction, but it was perfect.
I would recommend this to anyone who enjoys middle grade historical fiction, is interested in Chinese culture, or just wants a really good read.
November 29, 2025
A Goodreads recommendation prompted me to grab this newly released story as one for my son and granddaughters to enjoy together. They share a deep interest in adventurous journeys like The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings and Journey to the West, and his early reading at her age of Lawrence Yep's Dragonwings changed his life and led to his three years studying in China.
At first the length (406 pages) and the slow start of Glaser's book were discouraging. But two parallel features were promising: the matching maps of New York City and Chang'An, and the two intercut stories of a boy in 731 China and a girl in 1931 lower Manhattan. The perilous adventures of these two hard-working, precocious kids trying to save their families reminded me of Haroun and the Sea of Stories, a favorite book that my son and I shared when he was about the age of my granddaughter.
Eventually, though, I was glad to have found and stuck with this tale. At moments I worried it was a bit too frightening for six-year-old Naomi, and a little too pat in its miraculous, just-in-time escapes from cliff-hanging danger for 10-year-old Miriam. But it seemed structured just right for a parent to read nightly with a late-elementary child. And having both a boy and a girl as twin heroes separated by centuries and continents was a clever way to hook a variety of readers, while entertainingly teaching both history and geography.
At first the length (406 pages) and the slow start of Glaser's book were discouraging. But two parallel features were promising: the matching maps of New York City and Chang'An, and the two intercut stories of a boy in 731 China and a girl in 1931 lower Manhattan. The perilous adventures of these two hard-working, precocious kids trying to save their families reminded me of Haroun and the Sea of Stories, a favorite book that my son and I shared when he was about the age of my granddaughter.
Eventually, though, I was glad to have found and stuck with this tale. At moments I worried it was a bit too frightening for six-year-old Naomi, and a little too pat in its miraculous, just-in-time escapes from cliff-hanging danger for 10-year-old Miriam. But it seemed structured just right for a parent to read nightly with a late-elementary child. And having both a boy and a girl as twin heroes separated by centuries and continents was a clever way to hook a variety of readers, while entertainingly teaching both history and geography.
June 27, 2025
From the author of the Vanderbeekers series comes a quite different story alternating between 731 Chang’An China (theTang Dynasty) and 1931 Chinatown, NY. In China we meet Han Yu who has an unusual relationship with animals and around whom some have said they’ve glimpsed a tiger. During a plague, Han Yu must take his father’s place and deliver goods to a city that is hundreds of miles away. To make money to support his journey, Han Yu makes steamed buns.
New York is in the middle of the Great Depression and Luli Lee’s family Jade Palace Restaurant, once filled with patrons, is struggling to the point they may lose the building. The building also houses Silk Roads Gift Shop on its street level as well as five apartments in which both Luli and her friend Sam live. Can Luli and Sam come up with an idea to make enough money to save their home? Alternating between Han Yu’s journey and Luli Lee’s plans to help her parents comes a page-turning story of two children’s ingenuity and courage distanced by hundreds of years, but tied together by their traditions.
New York is in the middle of the Great Depression and Luli Lee’s family Jade Palace Restaurant, once filled with patrons, is struggling to the point they may lose the building. The building also houses Silk Roads Gift Shop on its street level as well as five apartments in which both Luli and her friend Sam live. Can Luli and Sam come up with an idea to make enough money to save their home? Alternating between Han Yu’s journey and Luli Lee’s plans to help her parents comes a page-turning story of two children’s ingenuity and courage distanced by hundreds of years, but tied together by their traditions.
September 20, 2025
“I never thought I would meet someone like you, who could spin memories into poetry. I grew up imagining what it would be like to have a friend, but now that I have met you, I realize a friend is so much more than I ever thought one could be.”
What is the most recent book release that has far exceeded your expectations? I have been eagerly anticipating this book since I first heard that Karina was writing it, and I was not disappointed—it’s absolutely wonderful!
This split-timeline story follows the journeys of Han Yu in ancient China and Luli, a girl in 1931 New York's Chinatown. I loved how their storylines complemented each other so well. Both young characters must venture into the unknown to save what they love most. This is a tale of courage, adventure, beautiful friendships, and discovering the nobility and value of one's calling and gifts.
I appreciated how both Chinese art and dim sum connect these stories across centuries, highlighting the beauty of heritage and tradition. The way art, cooking, poetry, and literature carry the stories of our ancestors through generations is truly beautiful.
This book is impossible to put down, and I highly recommend it for both young readers and adults! ✨🐯✨
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