Maomao’s father goes to work all year long. He builds houses far away from the city and he only returns for the Chinese New Year celebration. His family gets together to make rice balls, walk in the streets and share dinner. However, the next morning, Maomao’s father has to go back to work, but this time when he says goodbye he will get a surprise.

Two African-American boys and their Russian American 'sister' want to buy their 'gramma' that special Easter bonnet she admired at Mr. Kodinski's shop. When they are wrongly accused of throwing eggs at the shop window, they come up with the perfect way to prove their innocence--and earn money at the same time. Vivid illustrations and captivating characters mark this inspirational blend of culture, friendship, trust, and love.

This is the story of a treasure thought to be lost in a batch of tamales; of a desperate and funny attempt by Maria and her cousins to eat their way out of trouble; and the warm way a family pulls together to make it a perfect Christmas after all.