What happens when a young girl challenges a legendary tic-tac-toe-playing chicken in a neon-lit arcade? In Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken by Kimberly So, we follow Beatrice as she uncovers the truth behind a Chinatown attraction and hatches a daring plan to set things right. It’s a story that blends street smarts with heart, animal empathy with strategy, and a satisfying ending that will leave readers clucking with joy.
“Does she only eat when someone plays tic-tac-toe?”
About the book
By Kimberly So
Ages 4–9
In the bustling heart of New York City’s Chinatown, a chicken named Lillie draws crowds by playing unbeatable games of tic-tac-toe at a glowing arcade booth. But not everything is as it seems. A girl named Beatrice begins to wonder: is Lillie truly a tic-tac-toe genius… or is there something more going on behind the scenes?
When Beatrice learns Lillie has been trained to follow blinking lights controlled by a computer, she sets out to win the game, expose the secret, and negotiate Lillie’s freedom.
Will her plan work? And can a chicken really go from neon lights to backyard sunshine?
Why we love this book
At Buddy Son Storytime, our kids love Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken as it’s a story that’s both quirky and thoughtful, perfect for young readers who love underdogs or in this case, under-chickens!
We especially love:
About the author & illustrator
Kimberly So is a Brooklyn-based writer and editor. Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken is her debut picture book, inspired by a real-life arcade chicken from her childhood memories of Chinatown. Her storytelling balances heart and humor, blending cultural nostalgia with modern empathy.
Louie Chin is a New York–based illustrator and artist whose work spans publishing, editorial, and commercial projects. Drawing inspiration from pop culture, urban life, and his Chinese-American heritage, Chin’s illustrations are full of personality and energy—perfectly suited for capturing the bustling world of Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken.
Buy the book
Don’t wing it! Grab your own copy of Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken with the link below!
Similar books you’ll love:
If your young readers enjoyed Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken, they might also like:
- The Chicken Who Couldn’t by Jan Thomas
- The Bear and the Piano by David Litchfield
- The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate
Final thoughts
Tic-Tac-Toe Chicken isn’t just a quirky arcade tale, it’s a story about asking questions, standing up for others, and using clever thinking to do what’s right. With vibrant illustrations and a heroine kids can root for, it’s the kind of book that teaches gentle lessons wrapped in fun.
Whether your little ones are just learning tic-tac-toe or ready to rescue every animal in sight, this book will have them saying: “Let’s play again!”
Activities
Ready to keep the story fun going? Try some activities inspired by the book! And remember to refresh the page to restart!
