The Magic Fan

Keith Baker; Stacey Ross

ISBN 10: 061302348X ISBN 13: 9780613023481

Publisher: Bt Bound, 1997

Synopsis

Guided by a magic fan, Yoshi builds a boat to catch the moon, a kite to reach the clouds, and a bridge to save the villagers from a tidal wave.

About this title

About the Author

Keith Baker has written and illustrated many well-loved picture books and early chapter books, including several about the charming and lovable Mr. and Mrs. Green. Two of his best-known picture books, Hide and Snake and Who Is the Beast?, are about animals. He lives in Seattle, Washington.

From School Library Journal

PreSchool-Grade 2-- In this contemporary folktale set in ancient Japan, Baker tells the story of young Yoshi, a master builder who makes things for his village. Looking for a new challenge, he finds a fan which provides him with his inspiration by way of a new illustration whenever he opens it--a sailboat, a giant kite, and an enormous bridge. The villagers are confused and displeased with his new creations until the bridge saves the community during a devastating earthquake resulting in a tsunami or tidal wave. The magic fan is lost, but Yoshi realizes that the magic was his own and convinces the people to rebuild their village. The story is enchanting, but it is the illustrations that are sheer magic. Rich acrylic golds, greens, and reds predominate--all with a chalklike softness to them. The illustrations are executed in a semicircle, forming a scene on the fan with half-pages opening to reveal new ones. The paintings are deceptively simple, revealing complicated perspective and depth on closer inspection. Story, illustration, and format are marvelously united to give maximum enjoyment to readers and listeners. --Regina Pauly, Free Library of Philadelphia
Copyright 1989 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Bt Bound
• Publication date: 1997
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 061302348X
• ISBN 13: 9780613023481
• Binding: Library Binding
• Number of pages: 32