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A Single Shard
Tree-ear, an orphan, lives under a bridge in Ch'ulp'o, a potters' village famed for delicate celadon ware. He has become fascinated with the potter's craft; he wants nothing more than to watch master potter Min at work, and he dreams of making a pot of his own someday. When Min takes Tree-ear on as his helper, Tree-ear is elated -- until he finds obstacles in his path: the backbreaking labor of digging and hauling clay, Min's irascible temper, and his own ignorance. But Tree-ear is determined to prove himself -- even if it means taking a long, solitary journey on foot to present Min's work in the hope of a royal commission . . . even if it means arriving at the royal court with nothing to show but a single celadon shard.
Audio Cassette
First published April 23, 2001
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About the author
Linda Sue Park
72 books1,195 followersLinda Sue Park is a Korean American author of children's fiction. Park published her first novel, Seesaw Girl, in 1999. To date, she has written six children’s novels and five picture books for younger readers. Park’s work achieved prominence when she received the prestigious 2002 Newbery Medal for her novel A Single Shard.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,463 reviews
January 7, 2009
What a beautiful book. It is far more accessible than I had imagined knowing only that it was set in twelfth-century Korea and that the main character is called Tree-ear. But it could be thought of as a coming-of-age novel, as it tells a timeless story about taking a journey. The writing is lyrical in places, which brings the art and nature in this story alive. I feel like I can picture the Thousand Cranes Vase without ever having seen it.
The plot is compelling, too. The basic outlines of the journey and the related contest might seem predictable, but a flurry of developments at the end of the book caught me by surprise. And I love a book where the title conveys so much meaning--once you reach a certain point in the book.
A Single Shard won the Newbery Medal in 2002. I can now see why. The book takes you to another time and place, it gives you some unforgettable images, and it engages important themes in a most satisfying fashion.
The plot is compelling, too. The basic outlines of the journey and the related contest might seem predictable, but a flurry of developments at the end of the book caught me by surprise. And I love a book where the title conveys so much meaning--once you reach a certain point in the book.
A Single Shard won the Newbery Medal in 2002. I can now see why. The book takes you to another time and place, it gives you some unforgettable images, and it engages important themes in a most satisfying fashion.
March 12, 2013
Just finished with kids today (2.11.13). Made me cry all over again, it is so beautiful. We then looked up the Thousand Cranes Vase and it is astonishing! Reading the book made the artistry of the vase really come alive. Kids loved it.
--
Contender for 12/13 read aloud. I think this one's a winner.
You know, there's so much garbage in the world. So many, many bad books. And then you might pick up a jewel like this one. Not to mention that orphan books are abundantly plentiful these days for some reason and it's a rare find to get one that doesn't focus on the "orphan" part, really.
Not only is the writing absolutely superb, but the story, the characters, she did it all! I look forward to reading more by this author.
Absolutely fantastic as a multicultural tale, but just plain good for anyone and everyone to read. I love the culture of respect and obedience. I love the little glimpses of what the potter's wife does all day, the glimpses into old-time pottery creation, the glimpses of homelessness that isn't completely desolate when shared with a friend and mentor, hard work and creativity.
There was quite a lot to this story. If it was my book, I would have marked quite a few pages. There was a lot of seemingly simple wisdom and, actually, TWO great examples of mentoring that were completely opposite of each other, but both very effective. As it was, I did slightly dog-ear a few pages so I could remember my favorite lines. Really, though, some books are full of "one-liners," great & succinct little thoughts. This book offered more of a general feel, man can be noble, courageous, teachable, humble, resourceful, amidst hardship and pain.
--
Work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away. ~Crane Man (6)
--
Why was it that pride and foolishness were so often close companions? (102)
--
Contender for 12/13 read aloud. I think this one's a winner.
You know, there's so much garbage in the world. So many, many bad books. And then you might pick up a jewel like this one. Not to mention that orphan books are abundantly plentiful these days for some reason and it's a rare find to get one that doesn't focus on the "orphan" part, really.
Not only is the writing absolutely superb, but the story, the characters, she did it all! I look forward to reading more by this author.
Absolutely fantastic as a multicultural tale, but just plain good for anyone and everyone to read. I love the culture of respect and obedience. I love the little glimpses of what the potter's wife does all day, the glimpses into old-time pottery creation, the glimpses of homelessness that isn't completely desolate when shared with a friend and mentor, hard work and creativity.
There was quite a lot to this story. If it was my book, I would have marked quite a few pages. There was a lot of seemingly simple wisdom and, actually, TWO great examples of mentoring that were completely opposite of each other, but both very effective. As it was, I did slightly dog-ear a few pages so I could remember my favorite lines. Really, though, some books are full of "one-liners," great & succinct little thoughts. This book offered more of a general feel, man can be noble, courageous, teachable, humble, resourceful, amidst hardship and pain.
--
Work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away. ~Crane Man (6)
--
Why was it that pride and foolishness were so often close companions? (102)
January 12, 2022
Linda Sue Park won a Newbery Medal for this surprisingly gripping, moving piece set in twelfth-century Korea. It’s an unusual rite-of-passage story about a young boy Tree-ear, shunned because his orphan status means he’s considered bad luck, he lives outside, scavenging for food. But he’s happy because he has a single friend, the older Crane-man. Their village Ch’ulp'o’s a special place, famed for its craftspeople who produce eye-wateringly beautiful, shimmering pottery. Tree-ear’s fascinated by the work of the local potters, in particular the curmudgeonly Min, whose artistry’s unsurpassed. Tree-ear develops an overwhelming desire to follow in Min’s footsteps but how can he when the technique’s only passed from a father to a son? I thought this was lovely, it’s gently-paced, impeccably observed and meticulously researched. But above all it’s just a great story, it has an evocative, mythic feel but it’s also down to earth and a marvellous celebration of friendship and endurance. This new edition features a foreword by the author, as well as a detailed afterword outlining the book's background and Park's inspiration, a famous vase held in a Korean museum, an outstanding example of an art Korea was once renowned for, its maker’s name lost to history.
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Rock the Boat, imprint of OneWorld Publications.
Thanks to Netgalley and publisher Rock the Boat, imprint of OneWorld Publications.
February 17, 2009
I don't understand how this won a Newbery award. The plot and characterization were mechanical and simplistic. You could see the ending a mile away -- sure, it's a kid's book, but I haven't found clunky obviousness to be the norm with high-quality children's fiction. It felt like the kind of multi-culti book that committees like because they think it will be Good for You, as opposed to it simply being good.
I think the prize committee might've been suckered in by the simple prose style. Pointedly-simple prose is apparently supposed to be some kind of hallmark of deep "Asian" writing. Ah, so spare and graceful! So much is left unsaid! Nope, it's just dull writing. And no, it's not like Hemingway either, that's a whole other kind of simplicity (the good kind). I didn't like Ha Jin's "Waiting" for the same reason. I've found that the Japanese people I've asked similarly don't like reading authors like Kawabata Yasunari in the original (e.g., "Sound of the Mountain"). It's too mannered / self-consciously "Oriental" mystical / bang the goooooooooonnnng.
Anyhoo--- Won't be keeping this for the kids. Next!
I think the prize committee might've been suckered in by the simple prose style. Pointedly-simple prose is apparently supposed to be some kind of hallmark of deep "Asian" writing. Ah, so spare and graceful! So much is left unsaid! Nope, it's just dull writing. And no, it's not like Hemingway either, that's a whole other kind of simplicity (the good kind). I didn't like Ha Jin's "Waiting" for the same reason. I've found that the Japanese people I've asked similarly don't like reading authors like Kawabata Yasunari in the original (e.g., "Sound of the Mountain"). It's too mannered / self-consciously "Oriental" mystical / bang the goooooooooonnnng.
Anyhoo--- Won't be keeping this for the kids. Next!
October 15, 2022
A delightful historical fiction novel, set in 12th century Korea. We follow Tree-ear, a young orphan as he journeys on his path to follow his dreams of become a potter. I really admired his tenacity and quick-thinking.
The novel is historically rich, with many of the pottery pieces based on real-life artefacts. Linda Sue Park has a an immersive fable-like writing style.
The only thing I did not enjoy much was the character of Min. He basically acts like a villain for the majority of the book, treating Tree-ear horribly, but none of the other characters really stand up to his actions.
Older YA novels have a kind of magic to them that feels so nostalgic, even if I'm reading them for the first time.
The novel is historically rich, with many of the pottery pieces based on real-life artefacts. Linda Sue Park has a an immersive fable-like writing style.
The only thing I did not enjoy much was the character of Min. He basically acts like a villain for the majority of the book, treating Tree-ear horribly, but none of the other characters really stand up to his actions.
Older YA novels have a kind of magic to them that feels so nostalgic, even if I'm reading them for the first time.
June 6, 2020
Really beautiful story about an orphan boy who wants to be a potter. It is a teaching story that would work well in a middle grade classroom. There are many lessons and teachable moments. I also enjoyed the fact that this novel is set in 12th century Korea, a time and place so far away and I feel like a learned a little bit about it.
January 9, 2012
, جاءت فكرة النص للكاتبة وهي تبحث عن تاريخ كوريا القديمة فلفتت نظرها بعض العبارات عن الفخار الكوري والذي ينظر له في تلك الحقبة على إنه من أروع الأعمال في العالم .
على الرغم من قلة عدد صفحات هذه الرواية الشيقة حيث أنها تحوي 147 صفحة فقط
إلا أنها استغرقت أربعة أعوام لإنجازها منذ انبثاق فكرة الرواية وحتى كتابتها مرورا بتنقيحها
تدور الرواية حول طفل يتيم يعيش تحت جسر مع رجل مشلول تستهويه صنعة الفخار يقف مفتونا أمام أعمال أحد معلمي صانعي الفخار ويحاول أن يصل إلى السر الذي يجعل أعمال مين تتميز بالدقة التي لا تضاهى
مين يفاجىء تري إير وهو يسترق النظر في معمله دون إذن ويكسر إحدى أجمل أعماله
يستغل الطفل الموقف ويعرض عليه تعويضا وهو أن يعمل لديه بلا أجرة
مين رجل عجوز مغرور ومتوحد مع أعماله بوافق على العرض لكنه يوكل لتري إير أعمالا مرهقة بعيدة تماما عن تعليم الفخار , غير أن تري إير لايبالي ويستمر على الرغم من جروحه الدامية في قطع الحطب وجر العربات الثقيلة في العمل على أمل أن يتحقق حلمه يوما ما فيصبع صانعا محترفا , في أحد الأيام يزور القرية مبعوث ملكي ليختار أجمل وأتقن أعمال صناع الفخار ويكون مكلفا باختيار أحد الصناع ليعمل في القصر الملكي كصانع فخار القصر
تنقلب القرية رأسا على عقب ويحاول جميع الصناع إبهار المبعوث للفوز بهذا العرض
ومن هنا تبدأ المغامرات
الرواية كتبت بأسلوب رقيق ومشوق ممتلىء بكم زاخر من المعلومات وتبدو الكاتبة أنها قد أبحرت طويلا في البحث عن أساليب صنع الفخار وليس ذلك فقط بل دخلت في تفاصيل جماليات الفخار الألوان المتناسقة وكما تذكر الكاتبة استعانت بنحات متمرس لإبداء ملاحظاته على الأمور الخاصة بصنعة السيلادون , يبدو لي أن الكاتبة بذلت جهدا فاخرا في هذا الجانب لدرجة أنها أشعرتني كقارئة بأهمية هذه الصنعة كما لو أني رأيت تلك التماثيل والأواني رؤي العين
الرواية ترتسم فيها كمية مذهلة من البراءة والمشاعر الجياشة والتي فاضت عندي شويتين وولا أخفيكم أني ذرفت كمية من الدموع مع النهاية : )
على الرغم من قلة عدد صفحات هذه الرواية الشيقة حيث أنها تحوي 147 صفحة فقط
إلا أنها استغرقت أربعة أعوام لإنجازها منذ انبثاق فكرة الرواية وحتى كتابتها مرورا بتنقيحها
تدور الرواية حول طفل يتيم يعيش تحت جسر مع رجل مشلول تستهويه صنعة الفخار يقف مفتونا أمام أعمال أحد معلمي صانعي الفخار ويحاول أن يصل إلى السر الذي يجعل أعمال مين تتميز بالدقة التي لا تضاهى
مين يفاجىء تري إير وهو يسترق النظر في معمله دون إذن ويكسر إحدى أجمل أعماله
يستغل الطفل الموقف ويعرض عليه تعويضا وهو أن يعمل لديه بلا أجرة
مين رجل عجوز مغرور ومتوحد مع أعماله بوافق على العرض لكنه يوكل لتري إير أعمالا مرهقة بعيدة تماما عن تعليم الفخار , غير أن تري إير لايبالي ويستمر على الرغم من جروحه الدامية في قطع الحطب وجر العربات الثقيلة في العمل على أمل أن يتحقق حلمه يوما ما فيصبع صانعا محترفا , في أحد الأيام يزور القرية مبعوث ملكي ليختار أجمل وأتقن أعمال صناع الفخار ويكون مكلفا باختيار أحد الصناع ليعمل في القصر الملكي كصانع فخار القصر
تنقلب القرية رأسا على عقب ويحاول جميع الصناع إبهار المبعوث للفوز بهذا العرض
ومن هنا تبدأ المغامرات
الرواية كتبت بأسلوب رقيق ومشوق ممتلىء بكم زاخر من المعلومات وتبدو الكاتبة أنها قد أبحرت طويلا في البحث عن أساليب صنع الفخار وليس ذلك فقط بل دخلت في تفاصيل جماليات الفخار الألوان المتناسقة وكما تذكر الكاتبة استعانت بنحات متمرس لإبداء ملاحظاته على الأمور الخاصة بصنعة السيلادون , يبدو لي أن الكاتبة بذلت جهدا فاخرا في هذا الجانب لدرجة أنها أشعرتني كقارئة بأهمية هذه الصنعة كما لو أني رأيت تلك التماثيل والأواني رؤي العين
الرواية ترتسم فيها كمية مذهلة من البراءة والمشاعر الجياشة والتي فاضت عندي شويتين وولا أخفيكم أني ذرفت كمية من الدموع مع النهاية : )
April 9, 2007
Set in 12th century Korea, this book offers a glimpse into an ancient and ritualized society through the memorable and touching story of a young orphan boy and his foster father, an elderly hermit.
Detailed and charming, the story is effective on several levels.
Although certainly simple enough for the young readers who are it's intended audience, it has a universal message speaking to the innate desire in every person for a sense of belonging.
All ages will also find a fascinating and remarkably revealing detailed portrait of the culture of that time and place.
Despite the formality of their behavior, we are able to see deeply into the thoughts and feelings of these characters and to move with them on their emotional journey.
The central theme of self discovery is tightly woven with the powerful theme of finding a family that one belongs to, despite social norms that would otherwise present a barrier.
Another marvelous recommendation and gift from my excellent friend and fellow avid reader, Steve.
Thank you for all the lovely gifts of literature that you constantly share.
Detailed and charming, the story is effective on several levels.
Although certainly simple enough for the young readers who are it's intended audience, it has a universal message speaking to the innate desire in every person for a sense of belonging.
All ages will also find a fascinating and remarkably revealing detailed portrait of the culture of that time and place.
Despite the formality of their behavior, we are able to see deeply into the thoughts and feelings of these characters and to move with them on their emotional journey.
The central theme of self discovery is tightly woven with the powerful theme of finding a family that one belongs to, despite social norms that would otherwise present a barrier.
Another marvelous recommendation and gift from my excellent friend and fellow avid reader, Steve.
Thank you for all the lovely gifts of literature that you constantly share.
March 9, 2013
Eyes tap-dance as Linda Sue Park explains the spur-of-the-moment decision to give her Newbery medal for A Single Shard to her dad at the ALA awards ceremony in 2002. The auditorium went from noisy to dead silent as I walked to the edge of the stage to hand Dad the medal. "I'm thinking to myself, why is it so quiet?" and wondered if the audience didn’t like the gesture so I joked at the podium, “Dad, you had better leave that to me in your will.” Later she found out it was quiet because people were so moved they were crying. "I heard Bruce Coville blew his nose in the tablecloth," she laughs. Some time later, Linda Sue’s mom called to complain that her dad was “out-of-control,” still showing everyone The Medal. Linda Sue told her mom that it was okay and the excitement would soon wear off to which her mom said, “No Linda. You don’t understand... He just showed the UPS man!”
This is just one of many unforgettable stories Linda Sue Park shared at a recent visit to our school where she inspired kids to read and write. A master storyteller who drops a trail of historical breadcrumbs, I learned that the Japanese kidnapped Korean potters because they would not share their trade secrets around the 1600's; the Thousand Crane vase that inspired her to write, A Single Shard, is owned privately by a museum that opens two times a year (and even then there is no guarantee you can see it because it is only shown during a ceramics exhibition); that first-time authors have to sell a minimum of about 5,000 books after publication in order to get a second printing, and more.
Now take a close look at the actual Thousand Crane vase on the left. The potters used an incising technique to carve out the intricate patterns, filling in each incision with different colored clay during the 12th century. The complex firing process is simplified for her book, but you get the idea. This craft required a high level of skill. A Single Shard is about celadon pottery and focuses on the story of an orphan boy, Tree-ear, who desperately wants to learn this craft. He secretly watches the master potter, Min, then sneaks a peak at a piece of Min's work only to break it. The two come to an agreement that Tree-ear will work for Min to "pay" for the broken pottery. Thrilled, Tree-ear nurtures the hope that Min will teach him the craft, but this is a trade that is closely guarded and a potter doesn't share his skills with anyone, especially an orphan.
Tree-ear puts up with Min's verbal abuse and works hard to be respectful even when he wants to shout back at Min, instead focusing on the kindness of Min's wife, who gives him extra food. As thanks, Tree-ear does small chores for her around the house. At one point he loses hope of ever learning anything about becoming a potter, "How much slower the work when the joy of it is gone," but later he finds a new outlet. The homeless Crane-man is a cripple who has raised Tree-ear since he was a toddler under a bridge. Crane-man's wisdom and love help Tree-ear deal with the reality that the potter doesn't want to teach him his trade. "My friend, the same wind that blows one door shut often blows another open." Tree-ear's determination to make his dream come true is not completely extinguished, "The flame of hope that burned in him was smaller now, but no less bright or fierce, and he tended it almost daily with visions of the pot he would make."
Min is such a perfectionist he only makes a dozen pieces of pottery a
year. In order to make a living, he needs a royal commission. When Tree-ear travels to court on his behalf, all sorts of things go wrong starting with him spotting a fox, a symbol of bad luck to Crane-man and Tree-ear. The fox foreshadows Tree-ear's future suffering and through his experiences, Tree-ear decides to face the true meaning of family, courage, and responsibility.
The plot is beautifully written with interweaving action, symbolism and emotional turmoil. All the characters grow and change. Tree-ear's character is like the best Korean pottery that reflects the "radiance of jade and clarity of water." Tree-ear is like a shard of pottery; his family is broken but his character radiates all that is good in a person and he chooses kindness over hate, honesty over stealing, courage over fear, and respect over anger. Tree-ear could hate Min and feel betrayed that he won't teach him, but he chooses to focus on kindness in others. He could tell Min about Kang's new design but he got the information from spying, so he doesn't say a word. He could have given up going to Songdo but doesn't give into fear. Crane-man offers comic relief and changes internally by swallowing his pride to help Min's wife. Even the supporting characters such as Kang are likable and interesting. He does things fast, is not meticulous, and takes risks with his designs. He's not as good as Min because of his personality.
I am struck by Tree-ear's efforts to make his world a better place, and to make himself a better person. After spending the week with Linda Sue Park, this is a message she stresses to the kids. She ends all of her talks telling students to read because reading will give them knowledge and that they can use that knowledge to make their part of the world a better place. I know she makes the world a better place. Read her books - the simplicity and straightforwardness make for much thought and while that sounds contradictory it is also the magic of children's literature.
Reading level 6.7
Fountas and Pinnell: U
This is just one of many unforgettable stories Linda Sue Park shared at a recent visit to our school where she inspired kids to read and write. A master storyteller who drops a trail of historical breadcrumbs, I learned that the Japanese kidnapped Korean potters because they would not share their trade secrets around the 1600's; the Thousand Crane vase that inspired her to write, A Single Shard, is owned privately by a museum that opens two times a year (and even then there is no guarantee you can see it because it is only shown during a ceramics exhibition); that first-time authors have to sell a minimum of about 5,000 books after publication in order to get a second printing, and more.
Now take a close look at the actual Thousand Crane vase on the left. The potters used an incising technique to carve out the intricate patterns, filling in each incision with different colored clay during the 12th century. The complex firing process is simplified for her book, but you get the idea. This craft required a high level of skill. A Single Shard is about celadon pottery and focuses on the story of an orphan boy, Tree-ear, who desperately wants to learn this craft. He secretly watches the master potter, Min, then sneaks a peak at a piece of Min's work only to break it. The two come to an agreement that Tree-ear will work for Min to "pay" for the broken pottery. Thrilled, Tree-ear nurtures the hope that Min will teach him the craft, but this is a trade that is closely guarded and a potter doesn't share his skills with anyone, especially an orphan. Tree-ear puts up with Min's verbal abuse and works hard to be respectful even when he wants to shout back at Min, instead focusing on the kindness of Min's wife, who gives him extra food. As thanks, Tree-ear does small chores for her around the house. At one point he loses hope of ever learning anything about becoming a potter, "How much slower the work when the joy of it is gone," but later he finds a new outlet. The homeless Crane-man is a cripple who has raised Tree-ear since he was a toddler under a bridge. Crane-man's wisdom and love help Tree-ear deal with the reality that the potter doesn't want to teach him his trade. "My friend, the same wind that blows one door shut often blows another open." Tree-ear's determination to make his dream come true is not completely extinguished, "The flame of hope that burned in him was smaller now, but no less bright or fierce, and he tended it almost daily with visions of the pot he would make."
Min is such a perfectionist he only makes a dozen pieces of pottery a
year. In order to make a living, he needs a royal commission. When Tree-ear travels to court on his behalf, all sorts of things go wrong starting with him spotting a fox, a symbol of bad luck to Crane-man and Tree-ear. The fox foreshadows Tree-ear's future suffering and through his experiences, Tree-ear decides to face the true meaning of family, courage, and responsibility.
The plot is beautifully written with interweaving action, symbolism and emotional turmoil. All the characters grow and change. Tree-ear's character is like the best Korean pottery that reflects the "radiance of jade and clarity of water." Tree-ear is like a shard of pottery; his family is broken but his character radiates all that is good in a person and he chooses kindness over hate, honesty over stealing, courage over fear, and respect over anger. Tree-ear could hate Min and feel betrayed that he won't teach him, but he chooses to focus on kindness in others. He could tell Min about Kang's new design but he got the information from spying, so he doesn't say a word. He could have given up going to Songdo but doesn't give into fear. Crane-man offers comic relief and changes internally by swallowing his pride to help Min's wife. Even the supporting characters such as Kang are likable and interesting. He does things fast, is not meticulous, and takes risks with his designs. He's not as good as Min because of his personality.
I am struck by Tree-ear's efforts to make his world a better place, and to make himself a better person. After spending the week with Linda Sue Park, this is a message she stresses to the kids. She ends all of her talks telling students to read because reading will give them knowledge and that they can use that knowledge to make their part of the world a better place. I know she makes the world a better place. Read her books - the simplicity and straightforwardness make for much thought and while that sounds contradictory it is also the magic of children's literature.
Reading level 6.7
Fountas and Pinnell: U
April 14, 2023
Cleanliness
Children's Bad Words
Name Calling - 5 Incidents: stupid, pighead, fool, idiot, donkey
Religious & Supernatural - 2 Incidents: "Some people even believed the foxes possessed evil magic." Mentions a celebration of Buddha's birthday.
Violence - None
Romance Related - 1 Incident: "All of the King's concubines and ladies-in-waiting crowded around him..."
Attitudes/Disobedience - 7 Incidents: A character struggles with his conscience. Struggle with honesty: "Was it stealing, to wait as Tree-ear had for more rice to fall before alerting the man that his rice bag was leaking?" This continues for a few paragraphs. An adult is angry and says "I struck my crutch against a rock," but later laughs at his ridiculousness. Disappointment and anger ending in hurling a bowl "as far as he could." Shame and pride "clashed within him" as he juggles an act of "secretly substitut(ing)" a petal for another. It says: "His act had gone undetected. The stealth of it shamed him - but not enough to overcome the pride he felt at the knowledge that one of the many petals on the bowl was his." "Min had smashed the vases himself." - implied anger. "...hatred would give him more strength. And it did." Conversation Topics - 6 Incidents
"A normally sober man stumbling home drunk one night meant that a son had been born."
A wine shop and stopping for "a drink or two." "All of the King's concubines and ladies-in-waiting crowded around him..." It is noted at the end that these women would be taken prisoner, "probably to be tortured." "The women began jumping off the cliff. Every one of them preferred death to becoming a prisoner." *This act is regarded as "courageous", "victorious" and an "inspiration." "Leaping into death is not the only way to show true courage." A child considers jumping to his death, like the women he had heard of. He is ashamed that he does not have the courage to do so. But decides that it would take more courage to face an enemy.
Parent Takeaway
This is a story where character and honor are strongly depicted and where the main character asks questions to learn right from wrong.
Korea
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
Children's Bad Words
Name Calling - 5 Incidents: stupid, pighead, fool, idiot, donkey
Religious & Supernatural - 2 Incidents: "Some people even believed the foxes possessed evil magic." Mentions a celebration of Buddha's birthday.
Violence - None
Romance Related - 1 Incident: "All of the King's concubines and ladies-in-waiting crowded around him..."
Attitudes/Disobedience - 7 Incidents: A character struggles with his conscience. Struggle with honesty: "Was it stealing, to wait as Tree-ear had for more rice to fall before alerting the man that his rice bag was leaking?" This continues for a few paragraphs. An adult is angry and says "I struck my crutch against a rock," but later laughs at his ridiculousness. Disappointment and anger ending in hurling a bowl "as far as he could." Shame and pride "clashed within him" as he juggles an act of "secretly substitut(ing)" a petal for another. It says: "His act had gone undetected. The stealth of it shamed him - but not enough to overcome the pride he felt at the knowledge that one of the many petals on the bowl was his." "Min had smashed the vases himself." - implied anger. "...hatred would give him more strength. And it did." Conversation Topics - 6 Incidents
"A normally sober man stumbling home drunk one night meant that a son had been born."
A wine shop and stopping for "a drink or two." "All of the King's concubines and ladies-in-waiting crowded around him..." It is noted at the end that these women would be taken prisoner, "probably to be tortured." "The women began jumping off the cliff. Every one of them preferred death to becoming a prisoner." *This act is regarded as "courageous", "victorious" and an "inspiration." "Leaping into death is not the only way to show true courage." A child considers jumping to his death, like the women he had heard of. He is ashamed that he does not have the courage to do so. But decides that it would take more courage to face an enemy.
Parent Takeaway
This is a story where character and honor are strongly depicted and where the main character asks questions to learn right from wrong.
Korea
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! And be sure to check out my bio page to learn a little about me and the Picture Book/Chapter Book Calendars I sell on Etsy!
February 8, 2017
As kids get on and off my bus I see the books they are carrying with them. The books I see most often have characters who can shoot electricity, characters who have Gods as parents, or characters who can swing a sword and command dragons. A Single Shard is not one of these books. In fact A Single Shard is the antithesis of these books.
Compared to the action books nothing happens in A Single Shard. The major characters include an orphan and an old, one-legged man who live under a bridge; and a surly potter and his wife. How can an author get anyone to read a book with this cast? Perhaps if she gave one of them super powers or added magical creatures she would have more luck. Linda Sue Park didn’t do this. Oh, it’s true that the potter is a true artist when it comes to his pottery, and the one-legged old man can weave a mean pair of sandals out of straw, but these kinds of powers don’t cut the mustard on today’s best sellers list.
It turns out it is Linda Sue Park who has the super powers. She takes these quiet, unassuming characters and makes us care about them—deeply. Somehow she does this relatively quickly—in 152 pages—compared to the 1000+ page tomes other authors are putting out. It’s true this book is for children and by nature will be shorter, but this only increases my respect for her writing skill—what she did to me in so few pages.
The success of her book hinges on her ability to make me invest my emotions in the hopes and dreams of the orphan boy, Tree-ear. She creates an incredibly sympathetic character in this boy who is living what to us is a nightmare life, and living it with grace and courage. Using the insight of a true artist Linda Sue Park ignores what modern society would compel us to seek—security—and instead has Tree-Ear seek the creation of beauty. She does this convincingly.
Perhaps it’s because of the fact that Tree-Ear lives under a bridge, must seek food each day, and whose only companion is a one-legged man that we buy-in quickly when he runs into the remotest chance—through an unhappy encounter with Min the Potter—of becoming more than he currently is. As we learn to love the people whom he loves we learn to love him. By the end of the book—a book where seemingly nothing happens—we are ready to quietly go forth with determination to create beauty in our lives.
Compared to the action books nothing happens in A Single Shard. The major characters include an orphan and an old, one-legged man who live under a bridge; and a surly potter and his wife. How can an author get anyone to read a book with this cast? Perhaps if she gave one of them super powers or added magical creatures she would have more luck. Linda Sue Park didn’t do this. Oh, it’s true that the potter is a true artist when it comes to his pottery, and the one-legged old man can weave a mean pair of sandals out of straw, but these kinds of powers don’t cut the mustard on today’s best sellers list.
It turns out it is Linda Sue Park who has the super powers. She takes these quiet, unassuming characters and makes us care about them—deeply. Somehow she does this relatively quickly—in 152 pages—compared to the 1000+ page tomes other authors are putting out. It’s true this book is for children and by nature will be shorter, but this only increases my respect for her writing skill—what she did to me in so few pages.
The success of her book hinges on her ability to make me invest my emotions in the hopes and dreams of the orphan boy, Tree-ear. She creates an incredibly sympathetic character in this boy who is living what to us is a nightmare life, and living it with grace and courage. Using the insight of a true artist Linda Sue Park ignores what modern society would compel us to seek—security—and instead has Tree-Ear seek the creation of beauty. She does this convincingly.
Perhaps it’s because of the fact that Tree-Ear lives under a bridge, must seek food each day, and whose only companion is a one-legged man that we buy-in quickly when he runs into the remotest chance—through an unhappy encounter with Min the Potter—of becoming more than he currently is. As we learn to love the people whom he loves we learn to love him. By the end of the book—a book where seemingly nothing happens—we are ready to quietly go forth with determination to create beauty in our lives.
February 11, 2025
I just reread this wonderful story this past week, and cannot believe that I had forgotten to include it in my Goodreads list! Not only that, but it should have been in my “absolute favorites” shelf (but it is now!)!
I not only loved this story, but I learned a lot as well! This tale is about a young orphan named Tree-ear, who lives in 12th century Korea. He hides out in the bushes and watches one of the local potters working at his wheel, and longs to learn his craft. Until I read this story, I had no idea about the history of Korean pottery! Turns out that the clay near the western coast of what is now South Korea was ideal for pottery. I looked up more information about it after finishing the book, and was so impressed! It is beautiful!
...But, back to the story. Min, the elderly potter whom Tree-ear spies on, is a meticulous artist, and the boy is in awe of his work. One day, Tree-ear sneaks up to the shelves to inspect the fine details of Min’s work, and accidentally breaks some pieces. The old potter catches him and responds in anger. The boy asks if he can work off the cost of the damaged items. Thus Tree-ear begins his journey into learning the art of building and firing clay to make beautiful and useful items. Then, his life and the life of his master may change forever, because an emissary from the emperor’s court comes to their small village to look at all the local pottery. If their work is chosen, the potter selected would be granted a royal commission, which is a great honor and would guarantee a lifetime of work.
***If you love historical fiction, or have an interest in pottery, then treat yourself to this sweet, charming 2002 Newbery winner. It is a treasure.
I not only loved this story, but I learned a lot as well! This tale is about a young orphan named Tree-ear, who lives in 12th century Korea. He hides out in the bushes and watches one of the local potters working at his wheel, and longs to learn his craft. Until I read this story, I had no idea about the history of Korean pottery! Turns out that the clay near the western coast of what is now South Korea was ideal for pottery. I looked up more information about it after finishing the book, and was so impressed! It is beautiful!
...But, back to the story. Min, the elderly potter whom Tree-ear spies on, is a meticulous artist, and the boy is in awe of his work. One day, Tree-ear sneaks up to the shelves to inspect the fine details of Min’s work, and accidentally breaks some pieces. The old potter catches him and responds in anger. The boy asks if he can work off the cost of the damaged items. Thus Tree-ear begins his journey into learning the art of building and firing clay to make beautiful and useful items. Then, his life and the life of his master may change forever, because an emissary from the emperor’s court comes to their small village to look at all the local pottery. If their work is chosen, the potter selected would be granted a royal commission, which is a great honor and would guarantee a lifetime of work.
***If you love historical fiction, or have an interest in pottery, then treat yourself to this sweet, charming 2002 Newbery winner. It is a treasure.
March 30, 2012
Got a chance to read this book again. It went from four star to five stars. I had forgotten how speical this book was.
Summary: This is tough story to summarizes because I don't want to give the plot away. Bascially it is the story of an orphan boy Tree-ear and his dream of making pottery.
Review: The book is one of those warm fuzzy books that makes you feel life is beautiful. Similar in affect to Baby Be-Bop, Groover's Heart, and Shiloh. The story takes place in ancient Korean and is filled with Asian philosophy of honor and duty. The book also had some excellent descriptions in it. The best way to describe the book is to let it speak for itself.
"...work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away."
"Soon the winter rode on the back of the wind."
"...but the curt words swept over Tree-ear like cool rain over a patched field."
"But you must not tell your body. It must think one hill, one valley, one day at a time. In that way your spirit will not grow weary before you have even begun."
The characters are richly drawn. They are also true to life in that not much is said but, much is understood. A quiet but, beautiful book.
PS: The end notes were very intresting and enriched the story. An example Park explains the fear of the fox is akin to Westerns fear of bats.
Summary: This is tough story to summarizes because I don't want to give the plot away. Bascially it is the story of an orphan boy Tree-ear and his dream of making pottery.
Review: The book is one of those warm fuzzy books that makes you feel life is beautiful. Similar in affect to Baby Be-Bop, Groover's Heart, and Shiloh. The story takes place in ancient Korean and is filled with Asian philosophy of honor and duty. The book also had some excellent descriptions in it. The best way to describe the book is to let it speak for itself.
"...work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away."
"Soon the winter rode on the back of the wind."
"...but the curt words swept over Tree-ear like cool rain over a patched field."
"But you must not tell your body. It must think one hill, one valley, one day at a time. In that way your spirit will not grow weary before you have even begun."
The characters are richly drawn. They are also true to life in that not much is said but, much is understood. A quiet but, beautiful book.
PS: The end notes were very intresting and enriched the story. An example Park explains the fear of the fox is akin to Westerns fear of bats.
January 21, 2022
In my quest for books by Linda Sue Park, my latest favorite author, I found A Single Shard. The cover, and a protagonist named Tree-Ear had me persuaded that I could not live another day without reading this book.
I am so glad I did. I keep thinking about it. About ancestors and what they wrapped their passions around. About children alone in the world, throughout all generations of time. About celadon. . . that heavenly stuff, mesmerizing color. About cranky people who are unreasonable and cruel. About the sound of breaking pottery and the loud silence that follows. About strangers who can become the most important people one can ever find. About wet hands, shaping clay, twirling drops, fingers in flight. About air, water, wind and whispered stories that fill your lungs, brain and heart. There is something almost tangible about this story for me.
This will be the next chapter book I read to my little zoom reading group . . .
I am so glad I did. I keep thinking about it. About ancestors and what they wrapped their passions around. About children alone in the world, throughout all generations of time. About celadon. . . that heavenly stuff, mesmerizing color. About cranky people who are unreasonable and cruel. About the sound of breaking pottery and the loud silence that follows. About strangers who can become the most important people one can ever find. About wet hands, shaping clay, twirling drops, fingers in flight. About air, water, wind and whispered stories that fill your lungs, brain and heart. There is something almost tangible about this story for me.
This will be the next chapter book I read to my little zoom reading group . . .
June 12, 2023
I received so many recommendations for this book when I was looking for Middle Ages historical fiction for my son to read, and I’m so glad that finally spurred me to read it. Not terribly action packed, but a very well crafted story, with likable, relatable characters. Son will definitely be reading it this year.
ETA: My son did read it, and enjoyed it so much that he read ahead of what I had assigned for school. He really connected with the character and had a lot of empathy when things were going good or bad. Another excellent job, Ms. Park.
ETA: My son did read it, and enjoyed it so much that he read ahead of what I had assigned for school. He really connected with the character and had a lot of empathy when things were going good or bad. Another excellent job, Ms. Park.
August 3, 2018
Beautiful story... Beautiful book.
November 19, 2024
Well, you certainly don't see many children's books about mass suicide. Throw in some other deaths that also occur, and this book has quite the body count for an otherwise gentle, uplifting, and well done story about an orphan boy becoming an apprentice to a master potter in 12th century Korea.
I do have a kind of out-there theory about the ending though.
I do have a kind of out-there theory about the ending though.
January 21, 2019
I read the story not having a clue what to expect and would not have read it probably if I did not have a challenge that I was using it for. But it turned out for me to be such a beautiful, lyrical prose. The setting is the 12th century Korea and the main character is Three-ear. Such a fun name.
I have always enjoyed various cultures and I even taught multicultural literature to 12th graders. I believe it expands our horizons and I learn so much about other cultures instead of focusing on my own little microcosmic world. That holds true for this book too.
There were certain aspects of this book that if I had read a blurb about it, I might not have wanted to read it. For example, there is a potter’s wife and there is quite a bit about pottery and the creating of it which doesn’t sound that interesting to me but it actually was quite interesting. One of the treasures of Korea that is talked about in the book is the Thousand Cranes Vase which is an actual vase and it’s interesting to look it up online and read about that.
I’d say it’s a coming of age story and it’s simply a truly beautiful and well-written book that has a lot of short, but effective, words of wisdom and I loved it.
I have always enjoyed various cultures and I even taught multicultural literature to 12th graders. I believe it expands our horizons and I learn so much about other cultures instead of focusing on my own little microcosmic world. That holds true for this book too.
There were certain aspects of this book that if I had read a blurb about it, I might not have wanted to read it. For example, there is a potter’s wife and there is quite a bit about pottery and the creating of it which doesn’t sound that interesting to me but it actually was quite interesting. One of the treasures of Korea that is talked about in the book is the Thousand Cranes Vase which is an actual vase and it’s interesting to look it up online and read about that.
I’d say it’s a coming of age story and it’s simply a truly beautiful and well-written book that has a lot of short, but effective, words of wisdom and I loved it.
March 29, 2019
In 12th-century Korea the orphan Tree-Ear longs to become a potter and learn the art of creating the much-sought exquisite celadon pottery his village is known for. His big chance comes when he begins to work for the master potter Min, and a competition for a royal commission.
This middle-grade novel is a beautiful introduction to the Korean culture, as well as to the art of pottery. Park gives us a wonderful cast of characters, starting with the main character, Tree-Ear, an orphan who wound up in the care of the homeless Crane-man, who was crippled from birth and lived under a bridge. I love their relationship, how they care for one another, and give to one another so selflessly.
I also really appreciated the complex relationship of Tree-Ear to his mentor Min, and to Min’s wife, Ajima. The cultural barriers to truly bringing him on as an apprentice were as shocking to Tree-Ear as they were to this reader.
I learned much about celadon pottery, and particularly the uniqueness of the inlay process. The Author Notes expand on the culture and the art, and sent me to Google to look up the Thousand Cranes vase.
The novel was awarded the Newbery Medal for excellence in Children’s Literature.
This middle-grade novel is a beautiful introduction to the Korean culture, as well as to the art of pottery. Park gives us a wonderful cast of characters, starting with the main character, Tree-Ear, an orphan who wound up in the care of the homeless Crane-man, who was crippled from birth and lived under a bridge. I love their relationship, how they care for one another, and give to one another so selflessly.
I also really appreciated the complex relationship of Tree-Ear to his mentor Min, and to Min’s wife, Ajima. The cultural barriers to truly bringing him on as an apprentice were as shocking to Tree-Ear as they were to this reader.
I learned much about celadon pottery, and particularly the uniqueness of the inlay process. The Author Notes expand on the culture and the art, and sent me to Google to look up the Thousand Cranes vase.
The novel was awarded the Newbery Medal for excellence in Children’s Literature.
September 16, 2009
My children have a theory about book awards. They think they're only given to books where characters important to the hero/heroine die. To them, that little gold circle is a warning lable.
They have a point.
Still, I liked this book a lot. (Although it makes me angry when books make me cry, so from now on I'm deducting a star for the death of any characters I like. Authors beware: if you kill off multiple characters I like, you may end up with a negative rating.)
Anyway, the main character was charming. Here he was a poor orphaned boy living under a bridge and yet he was so kind and loving to everyone around him--so concerned about doing what was right. And he was always polite.
My children can't sit in the same room for ten minutes without threatening each other. So yeah, as a parent I love the main character in this book. I'd suggest that my children read it so some good manners could rub off on them, but alas, they'll see that warning lable circle on the front cover and refuse to open it.
They have a point.
Still, I liked this book a lot. (Although it makes me angry when books make me cry, so from now on I'm deducting a star for the death of any characters I like. Authors beware: if you kill off multiple characters I like, you may end up with a negative rating.)
Anyway, the main character was charming. Here he was a poor orphaned boy living under a bridge and yet he was so kind and loving to everyone around him--so concerned about doing what was right. And he was always polite.
My children can't sit in the same room for ten minutes without threatening each other. So yeah, as a parent I love the main character in this book. I'd suggest that my children read it so some good manners could rub off on them, but alas, they'll see that warning lable circle on the front cover and refuse to open it.
May 30, 2022
I enjoyed this glimpse of 12th century Korea and an introduction to celadon pottery, particularly The Thousand Cranes Vase.
The friendship between the orphan Tree-ear and the older Crane-man (because of disability he stands on one leg) who live under the bridge is a part of the story that sticks with me. They scavenge food where they can but refuse to steal. Work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away.
Another quote I copied down: Two things a man never grows tired of watching: fire and falling water. Always the same, yet always changing.
Added to my TBR list: Simon Winchester's Korea: A Walk Through the Land of Miracles
I'm reading through all the Linda Sue Park titles my library has.
The friendship between the orphan Tree-ear and the older Crane-man (because of disability he stands on one leg) who live under the bridge is a part of the story that sticks with me. They scavenge food where they can but refuse to steal. Work gives a man dignity, stealing takes it away.
Another quote I copied down: Two things a man never grows tired of watching: fire and falling water. Always the same, yet always changing.
Added to my TBR list: Simon Winchester's Korea: A Walk Through the Land of Miracles
I'm reading through all the Linda Sue Park titles my library has.
December 27, 2018
A beautifully written, easy to read, highly educational historical fiction. I wasn't certain what I was getting into when I started reading this book, but I'm so glad I continued. I learned so much about 12th century Korea and celadon pottery making. Plus, I love that this whole story was inspired by the beautiful Thousand Crane vase. Definitely a deserving Newbery Winner.
July 23, 2016
1. Lời giới thiệu gần như là tóm tắt tác phẩm. Đọc xong hết muốn đọc sách.
2. Nhưng mà vẫn phải đọc. Vì đây là sách thiếu nhi.
3. Tác giả viết rất có nghề. Đọc phần chú thích của tác giả ở cuối truyện thấy tác giả tìm tư liệu rất công phu. Nói chung là đáng nể.
2. Nhưng mà vẫn phải đọc. Vì đây là sách thiếu nhi.
3. Tác giả viết rất có nghề. Đọc phần chú thích của tác giả ở cuối truyện thấy tác giả tìm tư liệu rất công phu. Nói chung là đáng nể.
July 8, 2007
An unusual story and uncommon setting mixed with a strong protagonist makes A Single Shard a high-quality work of historical fiction written by Linda Sue Park. Set in Korea during the 12th century, a homeless boy’s life gains meaning as he works for a potter and eventually finds a calling and a family.
Tree-ear is a 12-year-old orphan who lives under a bridge in a seaside village with an elderly crippled man who cared for him as a child. Now that Tree-ear is growing up he longs for a purpose in life and takes interest in the famous celadon pottery his village produces. Min, a short-tempered and difficult potter, reluctantly allows the boy to work for him and Tree-ear eventually takes on the task of delivering a vase to the royal city, a journey that is both long and important. When thieves destroy the Min’s vase Tree-ear has only a single shard to show and convince the king’s emissary to award his master a commission for work. Tree-ear succeeds at his task and also reaches his goal of becoming a potter by proving himself to Min.
Park uses setting and characterization well in this book for upper elementary and middle school readers. She integrated Korean works and customs into the text to add depth and explain behaviors. The reader is taken into the world of pottery through this book and may want to create some after reading Tree-ear’s story. The plot of A Single Shard starts slow, but after Tree-ear begins his journey with the vase the story becomes more exciting.
The author brings the potter’s art to life through imagery and attention to detail. The reader understands Tree-ear’s longing to make pottery through the lines “He would squeeze his eyes shut, hold his breath, and rub the clay between his fingers trying to feel what was different ” (Park 2000, 44). Park describes the beautiful pottery integral to the story with the words “Tall and beautifully proportioned, rising from its base to flare gracefully and then round to the mouth, a prunus vase was designed for one purpose-to display a single branch of flowering plum” (2001, 52).
The author does a wonderful job of blending pottery and life in Korea into this story about an orphan seeking a family. While the reader may find the names and traditions of the unusual setting discouraging at first, once Tree-ear’s character is developed this story takes off. A Single Shard is a well-written book that includes accurate details from the past and explores the lifestyle associated with the art of creating pottery. Winner of the Newberry Medal in 2001, this work educates and enchants its readers.
Tree-ear is a 12-year-old orphan who lives under a bridge in a seaside village with an elderly crippled man who cared for him as a child. Now that Tree-ear is growing up he longs for a purpose in life and takes interest in the famous celadon pottery his village produces. Min, a short-tempered and difficult potter, reluctantly allows the boy to work for him and Tree-ear eventually takes on the task of delivering a vase to the royal city, a journey that is both long and important. When thieves destroy the Min’s vase Tree-ear has only a single shard to show and convince the king’s emissary to award his master a commission for work. Tree-ear succeeds at his task and also reaches his goal of becoming a potter by proving himself to Min.
Park uses setting and characterization well in this book for upper elementary and middle school readers. She integrated Korean works and customs into the text to add depth and explain behaviors. The reader is taken into the world of pottery through this book and may want to create some after reading Tree-ear’s story. The plot of A Single Shard starts slow, but after Tree-ear begins his journey with the vase the story becomes more exciting.
The author brings the potter’s art to life through imagery and attention to detail. The reader understands Tree-ear’s longing to make pottery through the lines “He would squeeze his eyes shut, hold his breath, and rub the clay between his fingers trying to feel what was different ” (Park 2000, 44). Park describes the beautiful pottery integral to the story with the words “Tall and beautifully proportioned, rising from its base to flare gracefully and then round to the mouth, a prunus vase was designed for one purpose-to display a single branch of flowering plum” (2001, 52).
The author does a wonderful job of blending pottery and life in Korea into this story about an orphan seeking a family. While the reader may find the names and traditions of the unusual setting discouraging at first, once Tree-ear’s character is developed this story takes off. A Single Shard is a well-written book that includes accurate details from the past and explores the lifestyle associated with the art of creating pottery. Winner of the Newberry Medal in 2001, this work educates and enchants its readers.
May 17, 2021
AR POINTS: 6.0 READING LEVEL: 6.6
(Ages 10-12, grades 5-7)
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What a great way to introduce your child to historical fiction. The base of this little 152 page story regarding the value of the 12th century Korean celadon pottery is true. The artwork on the front cover of the book is a celadon prunus vase, with the inlaid crane, as talked about in the story and is Tree-ear’s, the main character, dream to one day make. The processes used throughout the story to make this pottery is also true. In fact, even with today’s precision in technology, the beautiful colors of the celadon pottery cannot be replicated from that time period. Have your child read the Author’s Note at the back of the book first, which will provide all the facts. This story has a lot of positive lessons on good morals, such as honesty, perseverance and selflessness, and what comes of hard work...lessons many kids definitely need today.
Tree-ear, now about 12 years old, had become an orphan at age 2 when his parents died. Crane-man, an old man now, born with a disabled bad leg and foot, had become an orphan many years earlier when his parents had died. He eventually was forced to sell his home for survival and ended up living under a bridge...not a usual Korean custom as their culture usually takes care of the unfortunates and poor. But, as fate would have it, these two would end up living together under the bridge where Crane-man would teach Tree-ear the value in honesty and hard work.
Tree-ear became fascinated with the making of pottery. He had a habit of spying on one master potter, Min, who was known at the time as one of the world’s best potters, although perhaps the pickiest and slowest because of his perfectionism. One day when Min wasn’t around, Tree-ear was caught inspecting Min’s pieces. Tree-ear was so startled that he dropped a piece and it broke. Min was irate, and believing him to be a robber, proceeded to beat him. Tree-ear offered his services to make up for the broken piece of pottery. He worked off his debt to Min for the following nine days by doing all the grunt work needed in preparing the clay. But, Tree-ear’s dream was to learn to make his own vase one day. It was this dream that kept him working for Min, who was anything but appreciative, for the next one and a half years without pay.
The rewards for Tree-ear’s honesty and perseverance pays off in the end in more ways than one. A very touching story!
(Ages 10-12, grades 5-7)
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What a great way to introduce your child to historical fiction. The base of this little 152 page story regarding the value of the 12th century Korean celadon pottery is true. The artwork on the front cover of the book is a celadon prunus vase, with the inlaid crane, as talked about in the story and is Tree-ear’s, the main character, dream to one day make. The processes used throughout the story to make this pottery is also true. In fact, even with today’s precision in technology, the beautiful colors of the celadon pottery cannot be replicated from that time period. Have your child read the Author’s Note at the back of the book first, which will provide all the facts. This story has a lot of positive lessons on good morals, such as honesty, perseverance and selflessness, and what comes of hard work...lessons many kids definitely need today.
Tree-ear, now about 12 years old, had become an orphan at age 2 when his parents died. Crane-man, an old man now, born with a disabled bad leg and foot, had become an orphan many years earlier when his parents had died. He eventually was forced to sell his home for survival and ended up living under a bridge...not a usual Korean custom as their culture usually takes care of the unfortunates and poor. But, as fate would have it, these two would end up living together under the bridge where Crane-man would teach Tree-ear the value in honesty and hard work.
Tree-ear became fascinated with the making of pottery. He had a habit of spying on one master potter, Min, who was known at the time as one of the world’s best potters, although perhaps the pickiest and slowest because of his perfectionism. One day when Min wasn’t around, Tree-ear was caught inspecting Min’s pieces. Tree-ear was so startled that he dropped a piece and it broke. Min was irate, and believing him to be a robber, proceeded to beat him. Tree-ear offered his services to make up for the broken piece of pottery. He worked off his debt to Min for the following nine days by doing all the grunt work needed in preparing the clay. But, Tree-ear’s dream was to learn to make his own vase one day. It was this dream that kept him working for Min, who was anything but appreciative, for the next one and a half years without pay.
The rewards for Tree-ear’s honesty and perseverance pays off in the end in more ways than one. A very touching story!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2015
I hate to be so harsh on this book, but I was forced to read this in class which means to me that the teacher thought it was so good that we writers could learn from it. Personally, under that context, it horribly failed. The title, the summary, and story offered no entertainment or thought-provoking ideas. There is a lot of exposition and the story is quite simple both in plot and execution. I pretty much predicted everything that would happen and emotionally did not do anything for me. It was pretty much a How-To Pottery in disguise as a story.
Now, I know you are probably thinking how harsh what I've said is. I know, I know, it's a middle grade book, not every book has to be super great or complex or interesting or whatever. I know, I know, I know. It's even won awards, I think. But I just couldn't get behind it. The main character is too perfect. I argued with my classmates about this, but Tree-ear is really too perfect. He's an orphan who doesn't do anything wrong throughout the novel. He breaks something. Well, someone startled him. He takes a detour. Well, the man who raised him told him too.
And this isn't really giving anything way, but I think this scene is a perfect example about how Tree-ear really can't do anything wrong. Remember he's an orphan and he lives outside in the cold. Someone gives him a coat. He, being extra super nice, angel child decides to give it to the man who raised him. Okay, so giving it the man that raised him is super nice. But what if he had kept it? He still wouldn't be in the wrong! He's a cold, hungry orphan. Who's going to blame him for keeping a coat that keeps him warm? See what I mean?
I know this whole review sounds really negative, but it's not a horrible book. I don't think it's a great book, but it's not horrible. Very simply, this book and I were just a very, very, very, bad match.
Now, I know you are probably thinking how harsh what I've said is. I know, I know, it's a middle grade book, not every book has to be super great or complex or interesting or whatever. I know, I know, I know. It's even won awards, I think. But I just couldn't get behind it. The main character is too perfect. I argued with my classmates about this, but Tree-ear is really too perfect. He's an orphan who doesn't do anything wrong throughout the novel. He breaks something. Well, someone startled him. He takes a detour. Well, the man who raised him told him too.
And this isn't really giving anything way, but I think this scene is a perfect example about how Tree-ear really can't do anything wrong. Remember he's an orphan and he lives outside in the cold. Someone gives him a coat. He, being extra super nice, angel child decides to give it to the man who raised him. Okay, so giving it the man that raised him is super nice. But what if he had kept it? He still wouldn't be in the wrong! He's a cold, hungry orphan. Who's going to blame him for keeping a coat that keeps him warm? See what I mean?
I know this whole review sounds really negative, but it's not a horrible book. I don't think it's a great book, but it's not horrible. Very simply, this book and I were just a very, very, very, bad match.
January 23, 2009
Summary: This novel tells the story of Tree Ear, a young orphan in 12th century Korea. Tree Ear goes to work for the master potter, Min, and he learns the craft of pottery making as he finds new family and a new place in his village.
Response: I have never read a book set in Korea, and I love historical fiction, so this was a wonderful historical fiction reading experience. I enjoyed all the details of life in 12th century Korea, and I thought the author did a good job of making all Tree Ear's experiences accessible to modern kids; many aspects of Tree Ear's feelings and reactions will feel familiar to kids even though his circumstances are very different.
I read this book more as a teacher than as a reader, as I thought it would be a strong example for teaching the genre of historical fiction; the factual notes at the back of the book support this goal, and there is much that could be done with information reading and maps to support the novel. I also saw many ecological messages in this story, in the way resources were used, the way nothing was wasted, the way the villagers relied on their natural surroundings and therefore lived in better balance with them. I think Tree Ear's reverence for the punnus vase is a good sybol for this message; he describes its harmony and symmetry, the balance between earth and sky, the way the art form reflects the natural world. As we all turn to a more green way of living on the earth in our time, I think kids will be interested to learn how most people through history have lived in better balance, and historical fiction (this book in particular) can help develop this awareness.
HISTORICAL FICTION
Response: I have never read a book set in Korea, and I love historical fiction, so this was a wonderful historical fiction reading experience. I enjoyed all the details of life in 12th century Korea, and I thought the author did a good job of making all Tree Ear's experiences accessible to modern kids; many aspects of Tree Ear's feelings and reactions will feel familiar to kids even though his circumstances are very different.
I read this book more as a teacher than as a reader, as I thought it would be a strong example for teaching the genre of historical fiction; the factual notes at the back of the book support this goal, and there is much that could be done with information reading and maps to support the novel. I also saw many ecological messages in this story, in the way resources were used, the way nothing was wasted, the way the villagers relied on their natural surroundings and therefore lived in better balance with them. I think Tree Ear's reverence for the punnus vase is a good sybol for this message; he describes its harmony and symmetry, the balance between earth and sky, the way the art form reflects the natural world. As we all turn to a more green way of living on the earth in our time, I think kids will be interested to learn how most people through history have lived in better balance, and historical fiction (this book in particular) can help develop this awareness.
HISTORICAL FICTION
November 22, 2018
I think the main theme in this book is about how life is not always fair. Tree-ear, an orphan that lives under a bridge only had one goal. To be taught to make a pot. This is because he sees Min, a great potter that makes pots. One day when Tree-ear was spying on him, Min spotted him. They had a long conversation and they came to an agreement for Tree-ear to assist Min for a week. After a week, Tree-ear asked if he was allowed to keep working for him. He also asked to be taught to make a pot. Min replied rudely. He said that he would only teach his son who was gone. The next week, the embassy came to choose a special potter. Min was chosen, so Tree-ear had to bring his creation to the embassy. This was a long trip. When he was halfway there, thieves came. They thought the things he was carrying was valuable, so they robbed him. Once they found out it was pots, they thought it was not valuable, so they threw it off a cliff. Once Tree-ear was freed, he ran down to see if the pots landed in the water and if it was broken. When he found the pots, he was depressed. They were all shattered. This is one part when it showed how life is unfair. Eventually, he just took one shard and carried it to the embassy. But the embassy accepted it. When he arrived back to his town, Min was rewarded with happy news, but not Tree-ear. He found out that his friend who lives under the bridge with him was gone. Depressed. Scared. Shattered. Since Min felt bad for him, he told Tree-ear that he would finally teach him how to make a pot.
September 15, 2018
This is children's book that won the Newbery Medal in 2002. I squeezed it into my day yesterday, even though I'm working on a reading challenge that doesn't include this one. But it was short, and I loved the cover.
This author has written quite a few books for this age group, and I admire that kind of dedication and desire. And this felt age appropriate, so hooray for that.
The MC was orphaned but I liked the points about his character that the author highlighted. A younger age group could identify with his thoughts, desires and feelings. 3.5 stars.
This author has written quite a few books for this age group, and I admire that kind of dedication and desire. And this felt age appropriate, so hooray for that.
The MC was orphaned but I liked the points about his character that the author highlighted. A younger age group could identify with his thoughts, desires and feelings. 3.5 stars.
April 4, 2020
It’s a beautiful story. I think that it would be a hard sell to my students. Much of the book describes at length the process of creating pots, which was really interesting to me, but I think it might be a little bit too slow for my Middle School students’ self-selected reading. It would appeal to a patient, thoughtful reader. Major literary merit, of course, and I can see why it won the Newbery Award.
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