The Runaway Wok: A Chinese New Year Tale
In this high-spirited original folktale set in yesteryear Beijing, a magical pan becomes a Robin Hood hero. On Chinese New Year’s Eve, the poor Zhangs send their son, Ming, to trade their last eggs for rice, which, unlike the rich, greedy Li family, they plan to share with their neighbors. Along the way, Ming encounters an old man, who offers Ming a wok that miraculously pleads its own case: “Trade for me, / I am more than what you see!” Astonished, Ming carries it home, where it continues to sing: “Skippity-hoppity-ho! / To the rich man’s wife I go!” Off it bounces, and in several trips to the Lis and back, the wily wok collects food, toys, and money, which Ming and his parents joyfully distribute throughout their community. The well-paced, repetitive text reads aloud well, but young listeners will want to crowd in close to enjoy the details of holiday bustle in the appealingly packed acrylic paintings. An author’s note about the tale’s inspiration and Chinese New Year, as well as a recipe for stir-fried rice, close this festive offering. Preschool-Grade 2. --Gillian Engberg