Reviews: (by author)

Park, Linda Sue. A Single Shard. New York: Dell Yearling, 2001. $5.99.

Riveting! Set in twelfth century Korea, Park tells the story of a Korean orphan named Tree-Ear who dreams of being a potter. Tree-Ear lives under a bridge with his caretaker, a disabled old man named Crane-Man who teaches him how to be a good person and what having a family really means. Tree-Ear is caught spying on a local potter, Min, who is known for his skill and mastery. Tree-Ear becomes indebted to Min when he breaks one of his pieces and assumes an apprenticeship that changes his life. Park describes Tree-Ear's journey of self-discovery with such lyrical mastery that there is no wonder why this book won the coveted Newbery Medal.

The reader is mesmerized by her captivating language and the gentle flow of the story. In addition, the reader walks away from this book having learned much about Korean history and pottery. Park beautifully weaves history and art in this story. This book is full of compassion and simple grace.

Recommended by Virginia Loh.

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