Review Detail

Reader reviewed by Julie M. Prince

The little daughter of Chinas Emperor discovers that a silkworm cocoon has fallen into her mothers hot tea, and she watches a silken thread unwind from the cocoon. In an attempt to see how long the thread will stretch, the little princess ties one end to herself and, leaving the other end with her mother, goes for a walk through the Imperial Gardens. She encounters unexpected adventures as she continues past the palace gates and into the wide world beyond.

This book weaves a tale of how silk was discovered and how one tiny girls big adventures make a difference for a whole country.

Santores illustrations are purposely reminiscent of ancient Chinese art. Warm sepia hues highlight his mastery of light and shadow. Facial expressions and detailed prints of exotic beasts flourish on every page.

The folk tale is strong and imaginative, bringing new life to old lore.