kierscrivener 's review for:

2.0

This is a Chinese inspired middle grade novel that highlights the beauty and immortality of storytelling. I was never truly immersed in the story but I thought it was beautiful and celebrated storytelling and lore. I also appreciated the attention to how valuable food can be in poverty, how every grain is precious.

I loved the integration of realism and lore into the story and I love how the title (what a marvelously beautiful title) bookmarked the story. I always love when our protagonists are as fascinated with stories than I as a reader is.

Overall, Grace Lin balanced beautiful lyrical writing with approachable prose. It was a well constructed and satisfying story even if one that will not have a lasting impact on me.

I definitely this it is worth one's time especially if you are interested in the mythology of Chinese folklore ad it and it is a novel that makes you feel happy inside throughout and lingers afterward.