New Children's Picture Book Celebrates Lao American Family, Food & Heritage
The Californer/10330214

SAN DIEGO - Californer -- San Diego, CA – Authors Jimmy Syamphone and Dr. Jocelyn Francisco along with illustrator Bailey Phommavong proudly announce the publication of Laab You More, a 24-page, full-color children's picture book that centers on a Laotian American family, exploring how food bridges generations and affirms cultural pride.

In communities where Lao American stories remain under-represented in children's literature, Laab You More offers a meaningful and timely narrative: from the familiar question "Have you eaten yet?" to the fragrant steam of sticky rice and vibrant herbs in laab, the book shows how food says "I love you" without words.

Key Book Details

• Title: Laab You More
• ISBN: 979-8985777777
• Format: 24 pp, full-colour illustrations | Recommended ages 4–9
• Retail price: $14.95
• Distribution/Ships from: Little Yellow Jeepney, San Diego, CA

Why It Matters

More on The Californer

• Laurie McLennan and The McLennan Team Announces Strong Finish to 2025 With Notable Luxury Sales in La Quinta and Palm Desert
• City of Long Beach Launches Vacancy to Vibrancy Storefront Program to Revitalize Business Corridors
• Los líderes militares de California y México se unen para reforzar la resiliencia ante desastres y la seguridad fronteriza
• City of Long Beach Announces 2025-26 Winter Shelter and Inclement Weather Shelter
• "Great American Family to Premiere Christmas at Mistletoe Manor

While multicultural children's books have grown in number, Lao American representation remains scarce. Laab You More fills this gap and offers families of all backgrounds a chance to connect with heritage through story and food, while promoting empathy and cross-cultural understanding for all readers.

Publisher's Commitment
The publisher, Little Yellow Jeepney, is actively promoting the title across Lao American cultural networks and literacy-focused platforms, ensuring the book reaches the families, educators, and librarians who will embrace it. Indie bookstores, schools, and libraries can purchase wholesale copies, making the book available in communities nationwide.

About the Authors
Jimmy Syamphone (co-author) is a Laotian American storyteller and community advocate based in San Diego. Jocelyn Francisco, Ph.D. (co-author) is a Filipino American psychologist and co-author dedicated to helping families strengthen connection and cultural identity through storytelling. Bailey Phommavong (illustrator) brings years of experience in  illustration and graphic design and a love of multicultural narratives. Together, through Little Yellow Jeepney, seek to amplify under-represented voices in children's literature.

www.LittleYellowJeepney.com