Recommended Age:
10
+
Best for independent readers who enjoy patient, beautifully crafted historical fiction with themes of craftsmanship, perseverance, and finding worth through integrity.
About the Book
In twelfth-century Korea, orphaned Tree-ear lives under a bridge with his guardian Crane-man and dreams of becoming a potter's apprentice, despite having no family or status. When he is given the chance to prove himself by undertaking a dangerous journey to the royal court, Tree-ear must rely on his courage and integrity. A Newbery Medal winner that quietly celebrates craftsmanship, patience, and humility.
Content Ratings
💡
Mild Themes
Tree-ear experiences poverty, the death of his guardian, and the precariousness of life without family or status; themes of loss, resilience, and finding worth through craft and character are handled with dignity.
⚔️
Mild Violence
Tree-ear is robbed and beaten by bandits on the road; Crane-man dies from illness and exposure; violence is brief and serves the story's stakes without being graphic.
Engagement:
Genre:
Historical Fiction
Published:
2001
Page Count:
152
