Features
- Reading level: Ages 9-12
- Cover Type: Paperback with 160 pages
- Published by: Farrar, Straus and Giroux BYR September 30, 1997
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0374411891
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0374411893
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Book Dimensions:
7.5 x 5.1 x 0.4 inches
- Weighs: 4.8 ounces
From Publishers Weekly
Fang, a professional storyteller, makes her publishing debut with nine nimbly told tales. Classic Chinese operas and novels are Fang's principal sources; reportedly, these stories appear here in English for the first time. The plots tend to be more elaborate than those in similar collections, often involving not one but several twists of fate or reversals of fortune. A pronunciation guide and glossary at the end of the volume will help readers cope with the sprinkling of Chinese names and terms. Although the meanings of these words are not always clear from the context ("Mr. Yeh picked up the ch'ien holder from the altar, drew out two ch'ien, and threw them on the ground"), their use fortifies the already strong ambiance. Adult devotees of Chinese culture and international folklore should check out Fang's very informative source notes. Illustrations not seen by PW. Ages 8-up.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
From School Library Journal
Grade 4-7?A collection of ten Chinese stories derived from the history of the Warring States Period (770-221 B.C.E.) and from operatic versions of popular tales. Retellings are vivid, lively, and read aloud well. Many have a moral, and all are entertaining; some, like the eponymous story, are quite moving. "The Two Miss Peonys" has appeared in its Sino-Vietnamese version in Lynette Vuong's The Golden Carp (Lothrop, 1993). A list of sources with Fang's commentary is appended, including admission of any changes?in all but one case minor?to the original material. A pronunciation guide and glossary appear in the back of the book. In the former, the author explains with specious reasoning her misguided decision to use the antiquated, inaccurate Wade-Giles transcription for Chinese names and terms; even on its own terms, this guide leaves lots unexplained. Also, defining Chinese terms in a glossary instead of in context only impedes the narrative flow. The black-and-white illustrations?one per selection?are graceful, depicting widely different epochs with amazing accuracy. Except for the aforementioned flaws, this is a charming collection.?John Philbrook, San Francisco Public Library
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.
Reader ReviewsThis past year, it was suggested to me my the publisher of our 6th grade social studies textbook to have the students read the Ch'I-Lin purse in conjunction with our chapter on Ancient China. I cannot tell you how much my students loved this book. They are just wonderful. Of particular interest to my 6th grade girls was the story of the carp fish who gives up her immortality for love. I also have to confess, I really enjoyed this book myself and plan that in years to come, should I have a daughter, I will be reading this book to her.
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