[Author Biography]

Yih Fen Chen

A mother of two, Chou has for many years been editor-in-chief for a children’s book publisher. She received a second Master’s in Educational Psychology from the University of Wisconsin. Her Ph.D. thesis dealt with the relationship between young children’s favorite picture books and their cognitive development. Chou is the author of Mimi Says No, Mimi Loves to Mimic and Albert’s First Flight.

[Illustrator Biography]

Chih Yuan Chen

Chen’s artwork is a treasure trove of childhood fun. Images come to life through his skillful layering of a variety of media, including watercolors, pastiche and pencil. Chen’s works have received the Publishers Weekly Best Children’s Book Award, 2009 NCTE Best Children’s Picture Book, ALA Notable Book distinction, and have even reached the New York Times "Top 10" bestseller list.

Book Review

Mimi is a small molelike child with a purple dress, yellow hat, and big personality. As her mother gently urges Mimi to let her help with tasks like getting dressed, pouring milk, and using the slide, Mimi asserts her independence--"NO I'll go up the ladder myself!" Her determination results in spills, disappointment, and tears--the last of which is remedied with a hug. The soothing mixed-media illustrations and characters' animated actions make it an endearing lesson about consequences, while assuring unconditional love. Available simultaneously: Mimi Loves to Mimic .

---------- Publishers Weekly    

Mimi is a young animal drawn with black cartoony outlines, energetic expressions and postures of busy motion. Not surprisingly, her chorus is a favorite of two-year-olds everywhere. “‘Mommy is going to dress you now, ok?’ ‘NO I’ll dress myself!’ ” She wrestles, Olivia-like, with her purple jumper, achieving eight positions in a single spread. The pattern stays steady--one offer from Mommy, one NO, one chaotic upshot--until the gently silly twist at the end, when Mimi screamingly refuses a hug because she wants to bestow the hug herself. Add this title to large collection. (Picture book. 2-4) 

----------Kirkus    

Mimi’s independent ways continue … as she learns that her favorite word just might be ‘NO!’ Not quite capable, but wanting to prove she’s no longer a baby, Mimi is very very good at saying ‘NO I’ll dress myself!” even when her jumper ends up backwards on her little body, or “NO I’ll pour my own milk!” and having it end up anywhere but her cup, or “NO I’ll give Mommy a hug!” when Mommy offers her comfort after a fall … Parents will definitely recognize their adorable little ones in Mimi. And adorable little ones with share a few good laughs with this adventurous new friend.

Check out Mimi Loves to Mimic for more Mimi fun.

---------- BookDragon