MotherReader

Another in the series of booktalks, here are three where I set the scene by describing the beginning of the book. I added bits to these on the spot, but this covers the basics.

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon
written and illustrated by Grace Lin
Little, Brown 2009
In long-ago China, Minli’s family is very poor, barely getting by living in the shadow of the Fruitless Mountain. All they have is a bowl and two copper coins Minli was given at birth. When an unexpected traveler comes by selling goldfish with the promise that the fish will bring gold to the home, Minli spends one of her two precious coins on a goldfish. Though her father supports Minli, her mother scoffs at the notion, angry that they even have as small as an extra fish to feed. Feeling bad for causing any trouble, Minli releases the goldfish into the river, asking out loud how to change their fortune. Imagine her surprise when the fish answers. That magical moment begins her a journey to the Never Ending Mountain for the wisdom the Old Man of the Moon.

Wildwood
by Colin Meloy, illustrated by Carson Ellis
Balzar & Bray, 2011
When Prue's baby brother is picked up and carried off by crows, she has no choice but to go after him. She is responsible for him after all, and who would believe that he was stolen by birds. She can't believe it herself! She ventures into the Impassible Wilderness along with a classmate to find her little brother,and they discover a world of talking animals, warring factions, and terrible consequences for her brother if she can’t find him. An adventure story that continues with the new book, Under Wildwood. A great summer reading choice if you're missing the days of seven hundred page Harry Potter books (though this one is only 560 pages.)

The Last Dragon
by Jane Yolen, illustrated by Rebecca Guay
Dark Horse, 2011
Centuries ago, the islands of Dragonfield were rid of the dragons… except for an egg nestled in the roots of a tree, suddenly awakened. The egg hatches, and the dragon grew quickly Sticking close to the water, the dragon managed to go unnoticed by the nearby villagers occupied by the harvests. Until the town healer goes missing, and his daughter Tansy investigates his disappearance and the oddly scorched bag left behind. As the town discovers the dragon, they look for a hero and find one – sort of – in young man how brags of his battle scars (in hopes for money). But it will be more basic skills needed to save a village. Beautiful artwork compliment a classic fantasy story in this graphic novel.