American Born Chinese Children's Book Alley: Charmed

Sunday, February 6, 2011

Charmed

Robert D. San Souci (author)

Yoriko Ito (illustrator)

The Silver Charm: A Folktale from Japan

Doubleday, 2002

After young Satsu has snacked on wild berries, he gives his silver charm as payment to an ogre so that he may escape. But the berries sicken him, rendering him unconscious on the beach. Fortunately, his loyal pets, a pup and a young fox, lead Satsu's parents to their lost boy. But Satsu is not yet out of danger. The wise man observes that Satsu illness will not leave unless his silver charm is recovered. The resourceful and compassionate animal pair team up with a plucky mouse to save their beloved Satsu. Yoriko Ito's enchanting watercolor illustrations accompany this sweet folktale.

1 comment:

MarjorieFebruary 10, 2011 at 6:59 AM
The cover illustration is just adorable!
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About this blog

When I was a child growing up in the 1970s in middle America, children's books with East Asian content were rare. The few that I knew were a mixed bag. Some seemed to have good intentions, but uncomfortable stereotypes; others snappy writing, but uneven illustrations. Since then, I'm thrilled to see that children's books in the US have flourished, and there is a much greater variety of good quality books that I can now read to my hapa (half-Asian Pacific American) son.

This blog was inspired by a good friend with fine taste in children's books. In the coming year (by November 1, 2011), my goal is to review 365 children's books that might appeal to American Born Chinese, friends, families, and others with an interest in East Asian culture.