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The Crystal Ribbon
In the village of Huanan, in medieval China, the deity that rules is the Great Huli Jing. Though twelve-year-old Li Jing's name is a different character entirely from the Huli Jing, the sound is close enough to provide constant teasing-but maybe is also a source of greater destiny and power. Jing's life isn't easy. Her father is a poor tea farmer, and her family has come to the conclusion that in order for everyone to survive, Jing must be sacrificed for the common good. She is sold as a bride to the Koh family, where she will be the wife and nursemaid to their three-year-old son, Ju'nan. It's not fair, and Jing feels this bitterly, especially when she is treated poorly by the Koh's, and sold yet again into a worse situation that leads Jing to believe her only option is to run away, and find home again. With the help of a spider who weaves Jing a means to escape, and a nightingale who helps her find her way, Jing embarks on a quest back to Huanan--and to herself.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published January 31, 2017
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February 6, 2022“Fate is yuan, and yuan is fate. It is like a ribbon that binds things together.”
Spoilers follow and a discussion of child abuse and sexual violence.
So What’s It About? (from Goodreads)
“…Jing’s life isn’t easy. Her father is a poor tea farmer, and her family has come to the conclusion that in order for everyone to survive, Jing must be sacrificed for the common good. She is sold as a bride to the Koh family, where she will be the wife and nursemaid to their three-year-old son, Ju’nan. It’s not fair, and Jing feels this bitterly, especially when she is treated poorly by the Koh’s, and sold yet again into a worse situation that leads Jing to believe her only option is to run away, and find home again. With the help of a spider who weaves Jing a means to escape, and a nightingale who helps her find her way, Jing embarks on a quest back to Huanan–and to herself.”
What I Thought
I’m still not exactly what to make of this book. In the beginning I was sure that I’d found myself a perfectly pleasant, fairly standard middle-grade fantasy, but it ended up getting REALLY dark REALLY fast and I was kind of left reeling at the end, not totally sure what I’d just experienced. I think part of this can be attributed to Lim’s dedication to writing a historically realistic story set in medieval China. Some of these details aren’t necessarily dark, per se – Jing is illiterate, and we see the invention of paper money and commonplace acceptance of the supernatural.
But other aspects of historical realism are deeply horrifying – even a loving and kind father beats his children and sells his young daughter away in marriage. There are some super disturbing descriptions where Jing is abused by her in-laws using this awful finger torture device, and the worst part of all is when Jing is sold by her in-laws to a brothel and it seems like she is about to be sexually assaulted by a client. I’ve read a lot of books about sexual trauma for this reading project but none of them have been as upsetting as this one (even though no assault occurs). I think Lim is an effective writer in that these scenes were so incredibly impactful, but at the same time I can’t help but think about how upset by this book I might have been if I had read it when I was younger.
The magic in the story was lovely and was an especially appreciated reprieve from the overall darkness of Jing’s story. I especially loved all of her interactions with the her little spider friend Sisi. I also really enjoyed the way that the part of the story with Jing’s friend Kaizhen was left ambiguous. I have my suspicions about who he was, and I know Lim was definitely nudging those suspicions in one direction, but it was nice that she left the definite answer up to the reader’s imagination.
“Blessed is the woman who is talentless and uneducated.”
This is definitely a story about a girl struggling to find agency and empowerment in a world that believes that she has and deserves neither of those things. Jing is sold away twice and treated as little more than property by the people who buy her. In her acknowledgements, Lim says that women in her family were affected by the practice of tong yang xi (the selling of young girls into marriage with other children, usually infants for them to raise) and wanted to draw attention to the history of the practice and its effects on girls’ lives. The most effective part of this examination to me is Jing’s struggle in understanding what being sold away means about her family’s feelings for her – do they love her at all, or is she just a disposable item to them? Her hurt and confusion are really well-presented.
And I loved the eventual conclusion that Jing comes to about belonging and self-love:
“It was as though a heavy sack of rice had been lifted off my chest. So this was what Sisi, my little spider friend, had meant about carrying one’s home with oneself. This was why Sisi never felt sad wherever she went, because home was in her heart.
She belonged to herself.
Just as I belonged to myself.”
Spoilers follow and a discussion of child abuse and sexual violence.
So What’s It About? (from Goodreads)
“…Jing’s life isn’t easy. Her father is a poor tea farmer, and her family has come to the conclusion that in order for everyone to survive, Jing must be sacrificed for the common good. She is sold as a bride to the Koh family, where she will be the wife and nursemaid to their three-year-old son, Ju’nan. It’s not fair, and Jing feels this bitterly, especially when she is treated poorly by the Koh’s, and sold yet again into a worse situation that leads Jing to believe her only option is to run away, and find home again. With the help of a spider who weaves Jing a means to escape, and a nightingale who helps her find her way, Jing embarks on a quest back to Huanan–and to herself.”
What I Thought
I’m still not exactly what to make of this book. In the beginning I was sure that I’d found myself a perfectly pleasant, fairly standard middle-grade fantasy, but it ended up getting REALLY dark REALLY fast and I was kind of left reeling at the end, not totally sure what I’d just experienced. I think part of this can be attributed to Lim’s dedication to writing a historically realistic story set in medieval China. Some of these details aren’t necessarily dark, per se – Jing is illiterate, and we see the invention of paper money and commonplace acceptance of the supernatural.
But other aspects of historical realism are deeply horrifying – even a loving and kind father beats his children and sells his young daughter away in marriage. There are some super disturbing descriptions where Jing is abused by her in-laws using this awful finger torture device, and the worst part of all is when Jing is sold by her in-laws to a brothel and it seems like she is about to be sexually assaulted by a client. I’ve read a lot of books about sexual trauma for this reading project but none of them have been as upsetting as this one (even though no assault occurs). I think Lim is an effective writer in that these scenes were so incredibly impactful, but at the same time I can’t help but think about how upset by this book I might have been if I had read it when I was younger.
The magic in the story was lovely and was an especially appreciated reprieve from the overall darkness of Jing’s story. I especially loved all of her interactions with the her little spider friend Sisi. I also really enjoyed the way that the part of the story with Jing’s friend Kaizhen was left ambiguous. I have my suspicions about who he was, and I know Lim was definitely nudging those suspicions in one direction, but it was nice that she left the definite answer up to the reader’s imagination.
“Blessed is the woman who is talentless and uneducated.”
This is definitely a story about a girl struggling to find agency and empowerment in a world that believes that she has and deserves neither of those things. Jing is sold away twice and treated as little more than property by the people who buy her. In her acknowledgements, Lim says that women in her family were affected by the practice of tong yang xi (the selling of young girls into marriage with other children, usually infants for them to raise) and wanted to draw attention to the history of the practice and its effects on girls’ lives. The most effective part of this examination to me is Jing’s struggle in understanding what being sold away means about her family’s feelings for her – do they love her at all, or is she just a disposable item to them? Her hurt and confusion are really well-presented.
And I loved the eventual conclusion that Jing comes to about belonging and self-love:
“It was as though a heavy sack of rice had been lifted off my chest. So this was what Sisi, my little spider friend, had meant about carrying one’s home with oneself. This was why Sisi never felt sad wherever she went, because home was in her heart.
She belonged to herself.
Just as I belonged to myself.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2021
The Crystal Ribbon tells the story of Li Jing, and how she finds her way back home after essentially being sold to another family as a bride.
Li Jing has always been teased for her name, similar to the name of the deity that protects her village. However, over the course of the story, and after meeting many characters that provide some helpful insight, Jing comes to love and accept her name.
Upon being sold to a wealthy family as a bride, Jing is basically treated as a servant, and is bullied most of all by her young husband's sisters. She struggles a lot, but eventually comes to terms with her situation. Unfortunately, not much time passes before the family, undergoing financial issues, decides to sell her somewhere else.
The timing/pacing of the book was a little off for me, because while I'm pretty sure that multiple years pass between when Jing leaves her village and returns, it isn't always written like that.
Ultimately, this book is about the physical and emotional journey that Jing undergoes in order to find herself. She makes many friends along the way, and comes to terms with what her family had inadvertently done.
The ending was a little vague and open-ended, but I think it suited the book better than a clear "the end" would have. Overall, this story was magical and enchanting, especially with the era and location that it was set in. I absolutely loved reading about Jing and all the growth that she underwent over the course of the book.
Li Jing has always been teased for her name, similar to the name of the deity that protects her village. However, over the course of the story, and after meeting many characters that provide some helpful insight, Jing comes to love and accept her name.
Upon being sold to a wealthy family as a bride, Jing is basically treated as a servant, and is bullied most of all by her young husband's sisters. She struggles a lot, but eventually comes to terms with her situation. Unfortunately, not much time passes before the family, undergoing financial issues, decides to sell her somewhere else.
The timing/pacing of the book was a little off for me, because while I'm pretty sure that multiple years pass between when Jing leaves her village and returns, it isn't always written like that.
Ultimately, this book is about the physical and emotional journey that Jing undergoes in order to find herself. She makes many friends along the way, and comes to terms with what her family had inadvertently done.
The ending was a little vague and open-ended, but I think it suited the book better than a clear "the end" would have. Overall, this story was magical and enchanting, especially with the era and location that it was set in. I absolutely loved reading about Jing and all the growth that she underwent over the course of the book.
October 14, 2018
I HAVE BEEN TO THE SONG DYNASTY AND BACK.
What a wonderful and totally unexpected read! Ahhh my heart feels swollen with happiness.
- Interweaves fantasy/folklore with historical fiction! A really great book set in Imperial China and also educational as well! (I learned so much!)
- Has a gorgeous protagonist by the name of Li Jing who is sold to another family to become the nursemaid and wife to a young boy of another family.
- And it has SUCH an amazing adventure!! I feel like I've grown up with Li Jing and shared her experiences.
- Only warning: there may be some parts that may be overwhelming for young kids or potentially triggering to others: .
- Honestly, this book is such a blessing to MG.
What a wonderful and totally unexpected read! Ahhh my heart feels swollen with happiness.
- Interweaves fantasy/folklore with historical fiction! A really great book set in Imperial China and also educational as well! (I learned so much!)
- Has a gorgeous protagonist by the name of Li Jing who is sold to another family to become the nursemaid and wife to a young boy of another family.
- And it has SUCH an amazing adventure!! I feel like I've grown up with Li Jing and shared her experiences.
- Only warning: there may be some parts that may be overwhelming for young kids or potentially triggering to others: .
- Honestly, this book is such a blessing to MG.
Want to read
July 4, 201601/07/2017
Set in medieval China,
it tells the story of Jing, a girl sold by her family
to become the bride of a three-year-old husband,
and follows her escape and mystical journey,
in which her destiny is foretold by a golden fox spirit.
The book is slated for publication in 2017.
June 29, 2017
I finished an audiobook in 2 days? I've never done that before, so that says a lot about how much I loved it! I'm just a tad bit disappointed about the ending tho, because I wish things were wrapped up a bit better than they were. But the book is excellent and I'd really recommend it to anyone! Full review to come
April 22, 2017
A lovely story of resilience, friendship, family, and magic. :)
June 3, 2024
i seriously need to stop reading sad books omg. i knew it started sad but became magical fantasy, but i DIDNT know that the fun adventure didn't start until 3 quarters in. so it's just sad & tragic for 250 pages & then it's fun magical adventure. loved the ending but again, there's sad stuff after the adventure & it's like when is she getting a break this poor girl. anyways yeah also the voice starts off really young (she is 11 ig) but then it gets super dark super fast & the disparity is a little rough. the little princess vibes ig
May 21, 2017
A richly depicted historical fantasy novel about a young girl sold away from her family to abusive in-laws who helps and befriends jing, animal spirits.
I think that kids who like the journeying adventure of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon would like this book as well.
I think that kids who like the journeying adventure of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon would like this book as well.
December 13, 2023
I love finding East Asian history and mythology-inspired Middle grade stories, stories that I wished I had when I was a kid and am so glad are now available to kids.
This is a beautiful story where Jing, the eldest daughter of a poor farming family, is put through the absolute worst trials all because she's a girl, therefore unimportant, and of course, poor. Her journey is harrowing but also filled with fantastical wonder as she tries to escape her fate and find out who she wants to be.
I loved the magic, and I loved Jing's agency. However, I will say that the ending feels a tad ambiguous for a middle grade book; there are a couple plot lines that feels a little silly to open up just to have them left unexplored.
This is a beautiful story where Jing, the eldest daughter of a poor farming family, is put through the absolute worst trials all because she's a girl, therefore unimportant, and of course, poor. Her journey is harrowing but also filled with fantastical wonder as she tries to escape her fate and find out who she wants to be.
I loved the magic, and I loved Jing's agency. However, I will say that the ending feels a tad ambiguous for a middle grade book; there are a couple plot lines that feels a little silly to open up just to have them left unexplored.
February 23, 2017
I loved this book! Jing is such a lovingly rendered character. Though she faces incredible adversity, Jing's sense of self carries her through. I loved the thoughtful way she considers and adapts to her fate and how she ultimately realizes her own power. There are many other things to love about this book but what will stick with me is the journey Jing takes to find her way back home to herself.
July 24, 2017
-POTENTIAL SPOILERS-
The ironic thing is that this was recommended to me by somebody, and the day they recommended it to me was the very same day I got it from the library, lol. So I thought that was kinda funny.
I feel bad that I don't like this as much as other people did. I know it's a childrens' book, but I judge them as if they were any book, since my mind is very childish and I find I can get entertainment out of stuff like this far easier than other people. So I try not to be too harsh on childrens' books, but I wasn't really a huge fan of this.
I liked the general idea for the novel and why the author decided to write it. I liked learning about a lot of the Chinese customs and the mythology. Now, I don't know very much about Chinese culture, but I do know a lot about Japanese culture, which borrows a lot from Chinese culture. So I saw a lot of familiar deities and ideas pop up in this book, such as the idea of the jing.
I felt it moved a bit too fast, however. I had trouble really figuring out what year it was supposed to be and how old the protagnist was, as the book seemed to be structured in accordance to significant years in her life instead of a day-by-day thing as most book chapters are structured. It was also kinda boring and slow at the beginning, and I don't really tend to gravitate towards books that are slow at the beginning.
However, that was pretty much my major problem with the book, so that must be a sign of a decent book. A few people think the abuse in this book is too much for a middle-grade audience, but I feel like they can handle it as long as they're not extremely sensitive to it like I am.
I also think that cover is very beautiful and fits the story very well.
The ironic thing is that this was recommended to me by somebody, and the day they recommended it to me was the very same day I got it from the library, lol. So I thought that was kinda funny.
I feel bad that I don't like this as much as other people did. I know it's a childrens' book, but I judge them as if they were any book, since my mind is very childish and I find I can get entertainment out of stuff like this far easier than other people. So I try not to be too harsh on childrens' books, but I wasn't really a huge fan of this.
I liked the general idea for the novel and why the author decided to write it. I liked learning about a lot of the Chinese customs and the mythology. Now, I don't know very much about Chinese culture, but I do know a lot about Japanese culture, which borrows a lot from Chinese culture. So I saw a lot of familiar deities and ideas pop up in this book, such as the idea of the jing.
I felt it moved a bit too fast, however. I had trouble really figuring out what year it was supposed to be and how old the protagnist was, as the book seemed to be structured in accordance to significant years in her life instead of a day-by-day thing as most book chapters are structured. It was also kinda boring and slow at the beginning, and I don't really tend to gravitate towards books that are slow at the beginning.
However, that was pretty much my major problem with the book, so that must be a sign of a decent book. A few people think the abuse in this book is too much for a middle-grade audience, but I feel like they can handle it as long as they're not extremely sensitive to it like I am.
I also think that cover is very beautiful and fits the story very well.
January 2, 2017
Amazing amazing amazing!
May 31, 2022
Maybe it's because working at the library means you Cannot check out every decent looking book you see for fear of being crushed under their immense combined weight, but the books I have been actually reading recently are so good. Like. Every book I read I think "Man, I wish I had read this years earlier so that I could have been rereading it all this time." But that is *especially* true of this book. I don't write real actual reviews because I am lazy but-- this book is so good that I have to say something about it. I was super into Ella Enchanted for many many years as a child, and I think I would have liked this book even more (as an aro/ace person this is even more true). I am so impressed with the way Li Jing compellingly grows over the course of the novel; the plot (which I had the misfortune of guessing and therefore spoiling for myself, although that may be a product of being not quite the target audience) was greatly enhanced by the depth of her change. There were also so many other well constructed characters; I am so intrigued by Chang Er, and Jun'an was so lovable. My favorite element of the story is the way in which a lot of these side characters are left behind as Jing searches for a place to belong- I feel like often books with that sort of journey gather up all of the good characters neatly into one place for the main character, and although that is definitely satisfying sometimes, the way that every choice Jing makes to approach her freedom comes at the cost of the loss of a genuinely good relationship was so well written. Maybe there will be a sequel and we will get to see these characters again (I know that Jing will try to find Wei again someday), and that would be amazing, but I just cannot get over how well the overall arc of self-acceptance is made more nuanced by the repeated necessity of leaving both good and bad behind. In addition to that, as someone who very basic proficiency in Mandarin, the inclusion of the occasional character and the frequent family words/addresses were super cool, as well as the historical world-building. I will be shoving it into the hands of all the middle grade readers I meet for sure. 10/10 experience would strongly recommend.
April 9, 2022
Ok, I was not expecting that. I love reading middle grade fiction, and the premise of this story with the combination of historical fiction and Chinese folklore/mythology really caught my eye. Overall I loved the story and was very much invested in Jing’s pursuit for belonging and happiness. The author’s writing style was very beautiful and appealing to both a younger and older audience. I would recommend this book to upper middle school readers or older.
I was not prepared to see many of the topics included in this story marketed for younger readers, but the author did an amazing job of alluding to darker or more traumatic situations without overtly spelling out what the characters were going through. We only see what is happening from Jing’s perspective, so the depth to which those topics are addressed is only a child’s experience of them. Reading it as an adult, I think I was able to intuit more from the context and that is why I was surprised.
I still think that more sensitive young readers may be caught off guard and a little overwhelmed, so for those readers or their parents I will include a few trigger warnings below.
That being said, the authors note at the end of the book gave perfect context as to why Jing was put through so much trauma. Her story and the situations she faced are based on truth and may have happened to many girls during that time period in China. Becoming a Tongyangxi, selling children to afford to feed the others, corporal punishment and more. Most often life turned out worse for these real girls than it did for Jing.
TW: child marriage, child abuse, corporal punishment inflicted on children, children forced into servitude, selling of children to courtesan houses, alluding to child prostitution (does not actually happen and most of the characters do not support that situation), ritual child sacrifice.
I was not prepared to see many of the topics included in this story marketed for younger readers, but the author did an amazing job of alluding to darker or more traumatic situations without overtly spelling out what the characters were going through. We only see what is happening from Jing’s perspective, so the depth to which those topics are addressed is only a child’s experience of them. Reading it as an adult, I think I was able to intuit more from the context and that is why I was surprised.
I still think that more sensitive young readers may be caught off guard and a little overwhelmed, so for those readers or their parents I will include a few trigger warnings below.
That being said, the authors note at the end of the book gave perfect context as to why Jing was put through so much trauma. Her story and the situations she faced are based on truth and may have happened to many girls during that time period in China. Becoming a Tongyangxi, selling children to afford to feed the others, corporal punishment and more. Most often life turned out worse for these real girls than it did for Jing.
TW: child marriage, child abuse, corporal punishment inflicted on children, children forced into servitude, selling of children to courtesan houses, alluding to child prostitution (does not actually happen and most of the characters do not support that situation), ritual child sacrifice.
April 28, 2017
Li Jing is often teased because her name is so close to that of the guardian spirit of her village: Huli Jing. When she talks to the oracle/revered wise woman of her village, however, she is assured that her name is a good, strong name and that her fate is entwined with that of Huli Jing. This is important because she will experience many things that will test her strength, courage, and character.
Strong female character. Loved the setting. Hard to believe this was a debut novel. Well-written and engaging throughout.
Strong female character. Loved the setting. Hard to believe this was a debut novel. Well-written and engaging throughout.
January 17, 2018
This is on the mock Newberry list at my public library so I picked it up. It’s just really not my cup of tea, but I can respect that it taught me more about medieval China and the story is well told. That’s all I got.
February 2, 2019
This author is sort of an Amy Tan for kids... sweeping story, strong characters.
August 3, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Parts of it were heavy but the story was beautifully told and I really liked the ending. I love that the more magical/supernatural parts of this world were made so real.
September 17, 2021
As an educator, I wanted to use this book for a 5th grade World History unit on medieval China, but I found the plot a little slow and not historically connected to the time period enough for what I am looking for.
February 7, 2018
Celeste Lim has taken us back to medieval China in The Crystal Ribbon. The Great God Huli Jing reigns and has a temple in Li Jing's hometown Huanan. Li Jing, is a twelve year old girl when we first meet her. She is the eldest child of a widower with there children. They live with their father, their grandmother and their Aunt. Jing is sold for the bride price of 5 silvers to the Guo family to be the bride of their 3 year old son (The same age as her youngest brother). Her role as wife is more that of a babysitter than a true wife.
When she meets her new family Jing realizes that she has been sold as a slave and not into a better life as her family believed. Her relationships with the family cook and her husband are the highlights of her situation. Her sisters-in-laws are very much like the evil step sister's in fairytales. When the Guo family falls on hard times Jing is sold to a house of courtesans and she tries to escape.
Although this is a work of fiction it is historically accurate and I am pleased that Celeste Lim took the time to get the history right. It is a very good book. It took me some time to listen to it because I had such a hard time with the selling off of Jing. Nancy At did a good job giving voice to the narration. I will recommend this book to most people.
When she meets her new family Jing realizes that she has been sold as a slave and not into a better life as her family believed. Her relationships with the family cook and her husband are the highlights of her situation. Her sisters-in-laws are very much like the evil step sister's in fairytales. When the Guo family falls on hard times Jing is sold to a house of courtesans and she tries to escape.
Although this is a work of fiction it is historically accurate and I am pleased that Celeste Lim took the time to get the history right. It is a very good book. It took me some time to listen to it because I had such a hard time with the selling off of Jing. Nancy At did a good job giving voice to the narration. I will recommend this book to most people.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 15, 2022
This is Celeste Lim's debut novel that is set in medieval China with a quiet mythology integrated into the story and world and I believe that this is what Lim did best. She tells a story on her website about how her family relocated to Malaysia four generations back and she ell in love with the stories of Western fairytales and novels and only as an adult when she moved to Australia and then New York did she fall in love with her own culture. She weaves this mythology as one intimately familiar with it, it is first nature to be in medieval China where spirits are a commonplace reality.
The story itself is dark for its age range but I love that Lim writes about the horrors of reality in nuanced and age appropriate way. We meet Li Jing as a child who has lost her mother and is responsible for her brothers but is sold to a family when her family has little money, and this future requires her to be a wife at eleven in a wealthy household. But her husband is only three, so in the years when he is growing she is but a nursemaid and treated as a low servant in the household. Only to be sold in turn to be a courtesan and explore the advantages of greater wealth and education but also the obvious detriment of being a courtesan.
It is a very rich novel but it also explores the realism of this age in history, where Li Jing is illiterate and must communicate through drawing, and the abuse and maltreatment as well as sexism and objectification of women both now and then.
I really loved the way, Li Jing's world was shaped by the spirits. It is something integral to the history and oftentimes present of China and was done in a way where everyone had an established belief but that for her it was something more special and personal. I also enjoyed that her connection in this way and 'her being special' was not over done but instead was effortlessly in her character and arc.
I think overall, effortless is a good way to describe this book. I think Lim had an abundant amount of effort to make it seem effortless but it really draws you in and yet is straightforward in writing, world and themes but I think that in itself is a feat.
"I was alone, but not lonely."
Characters: 2
A lot of the characters were fairly one dimensional, not to the point of ire but there could have been more nuance. In the end this was neither a plus nor minus. Li Jing as an MC was endearing and inspiring.
Enjoyment: 2.5
I was not swept away but I was drawn in, I enjoyed the story and was excited to find out what happened next. I would love to see a sequel explore the next chapter in her life as I think that her future is going to be adventure and I would love to see it. Though, in the meantime, I will content myself with the roadblocks that Lim left us with.
World/Mythology: 4
As someone who has a passing understanding of the medieval China, Lim did a marvelous job of integrating us into the world in an effortless way. There was never any info jumping but you never felt lost. She wrote as if the reader was familiar with the world already, which made it feel more organic. The same about the mythology it was integrated and was steadily throughout with always being a passing thing that was normalized in the society they lived.
Themes: 3
Lim discusses a lot of different themes throughout that of family, identity, class/power imbalance, maltreatment and many more in smaller quotients. Though there is never deep dives into these, she does a fantastic job of bringing light to them in an authentic and realist way. She endeavoured to explore complex and dark themes in a book set for a young audience and wrote it in a way that is engageable on all levels. That is a feat in itself and I admire her skill and gusto.
Writing: 2.5
The writing was well developed and written through, it was neither remarkable or sloppy and was consistent in delivery, she gave a different voice to the different kinds of people/spirits and wrote in a simplistic and yet engaging way.
Celeste Lim does not have any more books slated for release at this point which deeply saddens me. She wrote this for her masters and it is impressive. I really hope that I will be able to read more works by her in the future and see her grow as a writer. Her voice is refreshing and unique and I would highly recommend you to pick this novel up.
The story itself is dark for its age range but I love that Lim writes about the horrors of reality in nuanced and age appropriate way. We meet Li Jing as a child who has lost her mother and is responsible for her brothers but is sold to a family when her family has little money, and this future requires her to be a wife at eleven in a wealthy household. But her husband is only three, so in the years when he is growing she is but a nursemaid and treated as a low servant in the household. Only to be sold in turn to be a courtesan and explore the advantages of greater wealth and education but also the obvious detriment of being a courtesan.
It is a very rich novel but it also explores the realism of this age in history, where Li Jing is illiterate and must communicate through drawing, and the abuse and maltreatment as well as sexism and objectification of women both now and then.
I really loved the way, Li Jing's world was shaped by the spirits. It is something integral to the history and oftentimes present of China and was done in a way where everyone had an established belief but that for her it was something more special and personal. I also enjoyed that her connection in this way and 'her being special' was not over done but instead was effortlessly in her character and arc.
I think overall, effortless is a good way to describe this book. I think Lim had an abundant amount of effort to make it seem effortless but it really draws you in and yet is straightforward in writing, world and themes but I think that in itself is a feat.
"I was alone, but not lonely."
Characters: 2
A lot of the characters were fairly one dimensional, not to the point of ire but there could have been more nuance. In the end this was neither a plus nor minus. Li Jing as an MC was endearing and inspiring.
Enjoyment: 2.5
I was not swept away but I was drawn in, I enjoyed the story and was excited to find out what happened next. I would love to see a sequel explore the next chapter in her life as I think that her future is going to be adventure and I would love to see it. Though, in the meantime, I will content myself with the roadblocks that Lim left us with.
World/Mythology: 4
As someone who has a passing understanding of the medieval China, Lim did a marvelous job of integrating us into the world in an effortless way. There was never any info jumping but you never felt lost. She wrote as if the reader was familiar with the world already, which made it feel more organic. The same about the mythology it was integrated and was steadily throughout with always being a passing thing that was normalized in the society they lived.
Themes: 3
Lim discusses a lot of different themes throughout that of family, identity, class/power imbalance, maltreatment and many more in smaller quotients. Though there is never deep dives into these, she does a fantastic job of bringing light to them in an authentic and realist way. She endeavoured to explore complex and dark themes in a book set for a young audience and wrote it in a way that is engageable on all levels. That is a feat in itself and I admire her skill and gusto.
Writing: 2.5
The writing was well developed and written through, it was neither remarkable or sloppy and was consistent in delivery, she gave a different voice to the different kinds of people/spirits and wrote in a simplistic and yet engaging way.
Celeste Lim does not have any more books slated for release at this point which deeply saddens me. She wrote this for her masters and it is impressive. I really hope that I will be able to read more works by her in the future and see her grow as a writer. Her voice is refreshing and unique and I would highly recommend you to pick this novel up.
March 12, 2017
I need more!! I'm praying that there will be a sequel to this - there was one massive unanswered question so I'm take that as a sign that there will be a sequel.
I honestly adored this book from start to finish, and it surprised me more than once. It also made me a lot more emotional than I expected. I feel like it could have been longer though, with more details - but that's only because I loved it so much and am now sad that it's over. It was interesting to learn about what medieval China was like, and also about some of the folk tails of that time. This book has left me craving more, and there is absolutely no doubt that I will read everything that Celeste Lim releases.
I honestly adored this book from start to finish, and it surprised me more than once. It also made me a lot more emotional than I expected. I feel like it could have been longer though, with more details - but that's only because I loved it so much and am now sad that it's over. It was interesting to learn about what medieval China was like, and also about some of the folk tails of that time. This book has left me craving more, and there is absolutely no doubt that I will read everything that Celeste Lim releases.
January 22, 2018
I don't know much about ancient China; that's probably why I kept thinking about Mulan as I read this? *sigh* I am wishing that I knew more about EVERYTHING (throwing my arms wide like Madam and twirling around); okay, calming down now--sometimes my ignorance is staggering! I only pay attention to what interests me, and then when I read a book like this--yes, I fully realize that this is a Children's Historical Fantasy that blah blah blah shouldn't be taken seriously blah blah blah grownup talk--I think that I didn't pay enough attention in school or maybe I missed something?
Moving on! While this is about ancient China, there is NOTHING boring or tedious about the past here! The geek in me wishes that there had been a glossary for all the words that the author used that I was unfamiliar with (Google to the rescue! so that I could look up and see "faji"; "hanfu"; "xipa" etc. The words were explained within the context but I wanted to know more!) Jing Li's story is full of action and the mystery and trials; she searches to find her true home. Along the way, Jing Li meets spirits (some good, some tricky and some evil) and new adventures; Jing makes new friends and does not lose honor.
Things to discuss:
The good: Jing LOVES her family--even when she feels like they betrayed her--she is loyal (especially to her little brothers); Jing has honor and does not want to give up on that, even if it would be the easy way out ; Jing comes to care for Ju'nan, and tries to look out for him;
The bad: Jing's family sells her away to an arranged marriage to . People get sick and die and almost die (no modern medicine back then). People lie and cheat and treat each other VERY badly (bullying galore!).
It felt like there could be a sequel, when I came to the end; while things wrapped up, there were some questions unanswered. I hope that this does mean that there will be a sequel! I would gladly come back to this world and to these characters!
Moving on! While this is about ancient China, there is NOTHING boring or tedious about the past here! The geek in me wishes that there had been a glossary for all the words that the author used that I was unfamiliar with (Google to the rescue! so that I could look up and see "faji"; "hanfu"; "xipa" etc. The words were explained within the context but I wanted to know more!) Jing Li's story is full of action and the mystery and trials; she searches to find her true home. Along the way, Jing Li meets spirits (some good, some tricky and some evil) and new adventures; Jing makes new friends and does not lose honor.
Things to discuss:
The good: Jing LOVES her family--even when she feels like they betrayed her--she is loyal (especially to her little brothers); Jing has honor and does not want to give up on that, even if it would be the easy way out ; Jing comes to care for Ju'nan, and tries to look out for him;
The bad: Jing's family sells her away to an arranged marriage to . People get sick and die and almost die (no modern medicine back then). People lie and cheat and treat each other VERY badly (bullying galore!).
It felt like there could be a sequel, when I came to the end; while things wrapped up, there were some questions unanswered. I hope that this does mean that there will be a sequel! I would gladly come back to this world and to these characters!
February 28, 2017
Even though I had previous versions of this, I found the story compelling and beautiful and sometimes scary. So proud and excited that Celeste's book is out in the world.
March 7, 2018
3.5 stars. This was a depiction of historic China and its weird rules about marriage. Throughout the story, there are also many Chinese legends embedded about jing, spirits both kind and evil. There’s not much I can say about this story. Also, there are Chinese characters shown through the book, so you may want to read this for those.
June 15, 2021
CW: child abuse, child marriage, commercial sexual exploitation of children
Celeste Lim’s The Crystal Ribbon is a beautifully written and engrossing story that is difficult to review due to its challenging subject matter which includes child marriage and trafficking. The book does not include any form of sexual abuse but as an adult reader I felt the threat of sexual violence hovering over the entire story which made for a difficult reading experience. The inclusion of Chinese mythological creatures including a nightingale and a spider who help Jing on her quest to freedom give the story a fairy tale feel that makes these dark elements more palatable to a young audience. While this subject matter is handled tactfully and appropriately for a middle grade reader, part of me worries that it sanitizes the horrific reality behind the story. At the same time I appreciate how Lim rewrites this history to bring awareness to the tradition of tongyang xi while offering a more hopeful ending to Jing’s story.
Celeste Lim’s The Crystal Ribbon is a beautifully written and engrossing story that is difficult to review due to its challenging subject matter which includes child marriage and trafficking. The book does not include any form of sexual abuse but as an adult reader I felt the threat of sexual violence hovering over the entire story which made for a difficult reading experience. The inclusion of Chinese mythological creatures including a nightingale and a spider who help Jing on her quest to freedom give the story a fairy tale feel that makes these dark elements more palatable to a young audience. While this subject matter is handled tactfully and appropriately for a middle grade reader, part of me worries that it sanitizes the horrific reality behind the story. At the same time I appreciate how Lim rewrites this history to bring awareness to the tradition of tongyang xi while offering a more hopeful ending to Jing’s story.
July 17, 2017
You can read all my reviews on my blog -> Cover2CoverMom
Set in medieval China, The Crystal Ribbon is the story of Jing, a 12 year old girl who is sold into an arranged marriage into the Koh family to be the wife and nursemaid to a 3-year-old little boy. Life with the Koh’s is not a happy existence, but things get even worse when the Koh’s sell Jing into an even worse situation in order to pay off some debts… Jing decides she must escape and find her way back to her family and the home she grew up in.
This book is a “Odyssey story” where the character is on a journey home, but keeps running into challenges that the character must overcome to reach their destination. Even though Jing’s story is bleak at parts, there is always a underlying feeling of hope throughout. Jing is such a wonderful character. She’s strong, brave, resourceful, and kind…. most of all she is tenacious. She does not just sit back and accept the hand that she has been dealt, but rather she knows she must be the one to change her fate. You will find yourself rooting for Jing every step of the way.
I adored the medieval China setting woven together with the fantasy elements drawn from Chinese folklore. The historical-fantasy fusion here just worked so well! If you are at all interested in Chinese culture and/or folklore, this book is going to be right up your alley. Actually, I think this is a must read for fans of Grace Lin. Do you really need any more incentive to give this one a go?
"Strength of character is never with those who blindly follow. You need to be able to make your own choices and walk your own path."
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. Not only is it beautifully written, but the plot is also well executed… Typically I see one or the other with debut novels, but Lim seems to achieve both right out of the gate. I cannot wait to see what this author will put out next. It breaks my heart that this book has not received the attention it deserves, as it is definitely one of my favorite reads of 2017. I assume this has to do with the fact that this is a debut author, therefore she is not well known yet. If you give this book a go, I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Due to some of the content, I feel this book may be a little mature for younger middle grade readers… Personally, I feel The Crystal Ribbon is more appropriate for an older MG to YA audience.
Set in medieval China, The Crystal Ribbon is the story of Jing, a 12 year old girl who is sold into an arranged marriage into the Koh family to be the wife and nursemaid to a 3-year-old little boy. Life with the Koh’s is not a happy existence, but things get even worse when the Koh’s sell Jing into an even worse situation in order to pay off some debts… Jing decides she must escape and find her way back to her family and the home she grew up in.
This book is a “Odyssey story” where the character is on a journey home, but keeps running into challenges that the character must overcome to reach their destination. Even though Jing’s story is bleak at parts, there is always a underlying feeling of hope throughout. Jing is such a wonderful character. She’s strong, brave, resourceful, and kind…. most of all she is tenacious. She does not just sit back and accept the hand that she has been dealt, but rather she knows she must be the one to change her fate. You will find yourself rooting for Jing every step of the way.
I adored the medieval China setting woven together with the fantasy elements drawn from Chinese folklore. The historical-fantasy fusion here just worked so well! If you are at all interested in Chinese culture and/or folklore, this book is going to be right up your alley. Actually, I think this is a must read for fans of Grace Lin. Do you really need any more incentive to give this one a go?
"Strength of character is never with those who blindly follow. You need to be able to make your own choices and walk your own path."
I cannot believe this is a debut novel. Not only is it beautifully written, but the plot is also well executed… Typically I see one or the other with debut novels, but Lim seems to achieve both right out of the gate. I cannot wait to see what this author will put out next. It breaks my heart that this book has not received the attention it deserves, as it is definitely one of my favorite reads of 2017. I assume this has to do with the fact that this is a debut author, therefore she is not well known yet. If you give this book a go, I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Due to some of the content, I feel this book may be a little mature for younger middle grade readers… Personally, I feel The Crystal Ribbon is more appropriate for an older MG to YA audience.
September 19, 2017
I finished this audio book and really enjoyed it! I loved the main character's personality and storyline. This middle grade book is amazing to listen to because of the detail of the plot and world. It was absolutely fantastic to also read about the 'spiritual'/fantasy aspects. This audiobook just really helped eat up all the time I was washing dishes and what not. I would highly recommend!
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
October 18, 2019
(+) The section with the demonic tree
(-) Most of the book was physical and emotional torture.
(-) A lackluster heroine
I think I'm clearly in the minority on this book.
I did not enjoy this. 4/5 of were dedicated to putting the heroine through a vast array of physical and emotional abuse, and not much else. She did not have a very distinct personality and I struggled to care about her. I'm glad the author didn't skirt around the terrible things that women went through in this time period, but pity does not automatically mean I'll root for you. Also even for a kid's novel this book is really graphic.
The end result didn't feel satisfying in the slightest. Jing finding her calling as a shamaness and leaving her Baba once again didn't fulfill me.
I have more issues but it really boils down to the story's structure. I will say the segment with the demonic tree was my favorite part of the book, and I genuinely enjoyed it.
(-) Most of the book was physical and emotional torture.
(-) A lackluster heroine
I think I'm clearly in the minority on this book.
I did not enjoy this. 4/5 of were dedicated to putting the heroine through a vast array of physical and emotional abuse, and not much else. She did not have a very distinct personality and I struggled to care about her. I'm glad the author didn't skirt around the terrible things that women went through in this time period, but pity does not automatically mean I'll root for you. Also even for a kid's novel this book is really graphic.
The end result didn't feel satisfying in the slightest. Jing finding her calling as a shamaness and leaving her Baba once again didn't fulfill me.
I have more issues but it really boils down to the story's structure. I will say the segment with the demonic tree was my favorite part of the book, and I genuinely enjoyed it.
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