Title: Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
Author: Grace Lin
First published June 1, 2009
278 pages, Hardcover
Rating: 4.3
Overview
In a village nestled at the base of a towering mountain, a determined young girl named Minli dreams of a better life for her family. Despite her mother’s skepticism, Minli is convinced that her father’s stories of the Jade Dragon and the Old Man of the Moon hold the key to changing their fortunes.
With nothing to lose, Minli sets out on a journey to find the Old Man of the Moon and seek his guidance. Along the way, she befriends a colorful cast of characters, including a talking fish and a flightless dragon, who help her navigate the challenges of her quest.
Will Minli’s determination and belief in the power of storytelling be enough to lead her family to a brighter future? Find out in this enchanting tale of adventure and imagination.
Source: Jacket flap
Editoral Review
“Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” by Grace Lin is a stunning children’s book that was first published on June 1, 2009. Lin is an award-winning author and illustrator who has gained critical acclaim for her children’s books.
This book is no exception, as it has received numerous awards including the Newbery Honor, ALA Notable Children’s Book, and the Mythopoeic Fantasy Award for Children’s Literature.
The book is a mix of Chinese folklore, adventure, and fantasy with a hint of magic.
The story is set in the mythical land of Fruitless Mountain where a young girl named Minli yearns to escape the hardships of her family’s life. She embarks on a journey to find the Old Man of the Moon, who might help her change her family’s fortunes.
Along the way, she meets new friends, including a talking dragon, and learns important life lessons.
Lin’s storytelling is exemplary, and the book is structured in a way that makes it easy for young readers to follow.
The themes of perseverance, kindness, and friendship are skillfully woven into the story, teaching valuable moral lessons that both children and adults can benefit from. The characters are lovingly crafted, and readers will find themselves emotionally invested in their journeys.
One of the book’s strengths is the depth of its cultural significance. Lin incorporates Chinese folklore into the story, and readers will gain a better understanding of Chinese culture as they journey with Minli.
The book also touches on inequality, injustice, and the quest for self-discovery, making it relatable to readers from various cultural backgrounds.
Lin’s illustrations are also praiseworthy, filled with vibrant colours and intricate details.
They bring the story to life and help young readers visualize the fantastic world that Lin has created.
Overall, “Where the Mountain Meets the Moon” is an excellent book that deserves all the accolades it has received.
Although it is marketed towards children, it is a book that can be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Its masterful storytelling, depth of content, and dimensional characters make it a must-read.
The only minor flaw with the book is that some readers may find the pacing slow at times; however, this does not detract from the overall quality of the story.
Therefore, it is highly recommended for parents searching for a book to read to their children or for educators looking to instil valuable life lessons in their students.
The story’s themes are relevant to our current times, making it a worthwhile addition to any collection. It receives a score of 4.5 out of 5, and it is evident that the book has set a new standard for children’s literature.
