Monday, April 26, 2010

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon by Grace Lin

This book was actually an ARC that I received at last year's TLA conference. Where the Mountain Meets the Moon was a Newbery Honor book for 2010. Oh, the treasures you pick up at TLA.

Minli is a  poor young girl who spends her time working hard in the fields with her mother and father. They live in a poor village. At night, Minli's father likes to keep her entertained by telling wonderful tales of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man of the Moon. Minli's mother is unhappy with their poor life and thinks the stories are silly and worthless.

One day, a goldfish peddler comes to town and Minli spends half of her life savings (1 copper piece) to buy a beautiful goldfish. Little did Minli know that this goldfish was on a journey. So begins the story of Minli's search for the Old Man of Moon who can help her and her family have a better life.

This was a very sweet story. The interweaving of Chinese folklore and Minli's story was flawless. The pace of the story was good. Following Minli's journey and in the end finding that it is important to spend time appreciating what you have makes for a good read. I think readers of all ages will appreciate the themes of appreciation and friendship.  

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