Research abstract

Magic and Myth in Imperial China in a National Book Award Finalist

New books are always coming out in abundance. It is a rarity in these days to find a novel that stands up above all others. The National Book Award is prestigious and even being a finalist means that it is true, modern literature. By The New York Times

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The New York Times discusses Grace Lin’s deep and engaging middle-grade trilogy. “When the Sea Turned to Silver” is an excellent addition for book clubs, students and children. Ginseng roots come to life through art forms of statue and painting. As a National Book Award finalist, this piece of literature blends culture, adventure, and intricate storytelling.

A horse becomes a dragon, a king becomes a tiger, two thugs become monkeys, a mussel becomes a swallow, a tongue becomes a snake, and a girl becomes a storyteller.

A quiet, mysterious girl lives on a mountain above a village. Taking place in imperial China, her grandmother, Amah, the Storyteller, is kidnapped by the emperor. Pinmei, in a quest to rise up against the emperor, is propelled through Chinese myths and folk tales. The three books in the series are best read in order, maintaining Lin’s interpretation of immortality – good fortune, peace, and longevity lead us into the future.

Key takeaways

  1. Grace Li’s When the Sea Turned to Silver is the final book in a middle school trilogy about statues, ginseng roots and paintings that spring to life.
  2. The final work in the series is a National Book Award finalist.
  3. The heralded book explores the theme of longevity.

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