Review Detail

The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon is a wonderfully illustrated story about a lion cub named Jin and a girl named Lulu who goes on a journey who must open a portal for the spirits. The novel illustrations not only help to immerse the reader in the story but also illuminate the many challenges Jin and Lulu experience in their quest. The illustrations help the story to leap off the page.

I loved how this story is based on Chinese folklore and Lin puts a lot of detail into the story. It educates readers about cultural traditions and the significance of Stone statues through the characters we meet in the story. Readers gain a better understanding of the importance of these statues to guarding sacred sites or representing mythological figures. The way Lin writes these folktales into the story makes it accessible for a wider audience and prompts you to learn more about the stories that have been passed down.

The characters are enjoyable and have flaws and the mistakes they make throughout the course of the story helps them to grow. Not only that but the way the main character grows through their relationships with one another was rewarding to see. It sends a message that we must be conscious of choices we make as well as to have courage in times of uncertainty.

I would recommend The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon to readers who enjoy folktales and myths. Lin’s lyrical writing style and imagination make the reading experience magical!