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Jennifer’s new children’s book, Dumplings Mean Family, is told from her son Ethan’s perspective as he shares what it was like to join their family after his adoption.


When Ethan and his siblings are adopted from China to the United States, everything seems so strange and different. Their new American family doesn’t even know how to make Chinese food! The children are worried. Will they ever get to eat their favorite meals again? For Ethan’s family, embracing two cultures means learning to fold and pinch their way to dumplings that taste like home.


Truly a family project, Jennifer’s oldest daughter, Rinnah, also served as illustrator for this heartwarming book celebrating the truth that families can be strong and united when they commit to loving each other for who they truly are.  As Ethan says, “We may be different in some ways, but we are one family!”


Themes: adoption, cultural diversity, respect, love of family, food

Book extras: Chinese vocabulary, Shaw Family Dumpling Recipe

Details: 32 pages, illustrated children’s hardcover


For more information and additional purchasing options, click here.

For more information about Jennifer Shaw visit her web site here.


Jennifer Shaw is an award-winning author, speaker, singer, songwriter and five-time Top 40 Billboard artist. Her work has been featured by Focus on the Family, Insight for Living, Family Life Today, Compassion International, Autism Speaks, and many more. Her book, “Life Not Typical: How Special Needs Parenting Changed My Faith and My Song,” has brought national attention to the issue of Sensory Processing Disorder. She lives in Columbus, Ohio with her husband, six busy kids, and two crazy dogs. Visit her on the web at jennifershaw.com.

Rinnah Shaw is an up-and-coming illustrator and writer who was named “Illustrator of the Year’’ by Taylor University. Her art has been featured at the Metcalf Open, the McConnell Arts Center, Spring Arbor University Invitational, and the Garrett Museum of Art among others. She loves her large, busy family in Columbus, Ohio. Find more of her work on Instagram (@rinnah_draws) or on her website, rinnahshaw.com.