Children will be fascinated by this gorgeously crafted picture book, which has the familiar elements of a fairy tale but may expose some readers to a narrative and culture that might not be familiar to them.
Told through the eyes of her sister Ling, this sumptuously illustrated story tells the Chinese legend of Kuan Yin, a widely revered Buddhist saint, or bodhisattva, known as Avalokiteshvara.
When Kuan Yin’s father, the king, demands that she marry, the princess escapes into the dense forest and meditates under a willow tree. Her calm meditation directs her to a spiritual path, and Ling watches as her sister disappears into a mist, riding a tiger. After nine years, Kuan Yin returns to heal her ill father, who then builds a beautiful temple for her on Fragrant Mountain and dedicates himself to spreading happiness in the kingdom far and wide. She is immortalized as the goddess who hears the cries of the world, and many pray to her for love or compassion if they are suffering. Ling hopes that children will learn their secret: “that love is the greatest power in the world.” Lavish color spreads, done digitally, accompany the extensive text and teem with natural touches: glorious landscapes, writhing dragons, and elegant depictions of the beautiful palace and elaborate clothing. Children will be fascinated by this gorgeously crafted picture book, which has the familiar elements of a fairy tale but may expose some readers to a narrative and culture that might not be familiar to them.
— Lolly Gepson