If you are looking for books that introduce children to Chinese culture, these two books would be great to explore! Bowls of Happiness and What Was It Like, Mr. Emperor? celebrate the Forbidden City, which is now called the Palace Museum, and the study of architecture, imperial life, and Chinese cultural history in ways that are accessible, appealing, and relevant to children, parents and teachers.
Bowls of Happiness (ages 4-8)
Created by internationally renowned artists Brian Tse and Alice Mak, this China Institute (with Tuttle Publishing) book teaches children about Chinese artwork and culture and their universal spirit of generosity, love, and respect for nature. The loveable illustrations are coupled with photographs of porcelain art found in the Palace Museum’s collection. Kids learn about how bowls are made and be able to draw their own Bowl of Happiness after reading the story. 
What Was It Like, Mr. Emperor? (ages 8+)
Engaging stories take kids through the average life of an emperor and learn about the real people who lived in the palace, including the prince who fought off a rebel invasion, the palace maids who lived in the Inner Court, the emperor who ruled twice, and the emperor who loved crickets. Author Chiu Kwong-chiu is an artist, designer, and professor who explores Chinese traditional visual arts and adopts groundbreaking methods to interpret and promote Chinese art and culture. From China Institute with Tuttle Publishing.
