Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (2009)
written and illustrated by Grace Lin

This Newbery Honor Book tells the story of young Minli.  Her family works very hard in their poor village, but her nights are filled with delightful storytelling from her father.  In an attempt to change her family’s fate though, Minli ventures out to meet the God-like, Old Man of the Moon.  On her journey, she befriends a land-bound dragon, a king, a poor buffalo boy, and a pair of young, giggly twins.

The storytelling element is woven throughout the book effortlessly and expertly.  While this seems like a somewhat simple, approachable book, it is also astounding to see how Grace Lin intertwines and connects everybody’s stories in such an artful and beautiful way.  Where the Mountain Meets the Moon feels ancient and far away, while still remaining comfortingly familiar.  This book is so lovely and heartwarming.  It is now on my “must own” list, and all of Ms. Lin’s other books are already on my library wish list.

The timing of this book was perfect for me, as I have been reading and researching storytelling.  In the back of the book, Grace Lin discusses her inspirations for the book from traditional Chinese fairy tales she read as a child.

Ms. Lin’s gorgeous illustrations accompany the book, providing whimsy and beauty without getting in the way of your own imagination.  She sells some of her book art on Etsy, and I am eagerly awaiting The King’s Garden print.

I highly recommend a visit to Grace Lin’s incredible website.  She provides well-thought-out, detailed activities to accompany the book, including recipes, art, book discussion questions, a board game created by a young reader, and an amazing Where the Mountain Meets the Moon event with instructions and print-outs that I am so excited to try when our daughter is older!

Where the Mountain Meets the Moon (2009)
Themes/Concepts include:
friendships
family
courage
storytelling
gratitude
compassion
appreciating what you have
fate and destiny

Some quotes:
“A soft breeze seemed to blow in the moonlight, spilling in through the open window and lighting the bowl like a lantern.”  ch 20

“The exhaustion from the long night of worry had made her feel heavy and clumsy, but the children’s happiness seemed to carry her.”  ch 34

“For all the time that she had been longing for treasures, she had already had the one most precious.”  ch 44

“If you make happy those that are near, those that are far will come.”  ch 44 (the fish)

“The sun seemed to warm her heart and joy bubbled inside of her.”  ch 46