PICTURE BOOKS

Bing’s Cherries

by Livia Blackburne (text) & illus. by Julia Kuo
Knopf. Mar. 2026. 48p. Tr $18.99. ISBN 9780593902813. K-Gr 3
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3–Blackburne and Kuo create a modern American tall tale that celebrates Ah Bing, the Chinese immigrant who brought Bing cherries to the Pacific Northwest. The story follows Bing’s journey from his arrival in San Francisco to his work in an Oregon cherry orchard, where he faces prejudice because of his appearance and language. In a playful twist, Bing himself grows into a larger-than-life figure—reminiscent of Paul Bunyan or John Henry—his legend ripening alongside the cherries he tends. Kuo’s vibrant, Asian-inspired spreads beautifully depict Bing and the orchards he tended. Back matter includes notes from both author and illustrator connecting the story’s inspiration to their Chinese and Taiwanese heritage.
VERDICT A beautifully told and authentically grounded tale honoring the immigrant behind the famous Bing cherry and celebrating Chinese American resilience and contribution.
Reviewed by Heidi Dechief , Jan 01, 2026

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