The Dragon's Robe

A young weaver in twelfth-century China saves her people from drought and foreign invasion by weaving the imperial dragon's robe.

Grade 2-5-- An original story using traditional folk motifs, greatly enriched by stunning artwork. Kwan Yin saves China by weaving a dragon robe for the emperor to placate the rain dragon who has been angered by the emperor's false ministers. Faithful Kwan Yin not only observes their treachery, but she also steadfastly weaves the dragon robe in the face of all danger until it is finished and taken by the rain dragon who, in return, destroys the enemy. Lattimore uses traditional Chinese designs and colors in picturing an imaginative phoenix, a ferocious tiger, and a magnificent dragon. The text appears as scrolls on each page with textured, inset, seemingly woven scenes at the tops of many of them, adding to the visual narration. The story is less impressive and clear than the paintings; its convoluted and sometimes confusing plot leaves readers with unanswered questions concerning the characters' motivation and rewards. Still, readers may find the theme of treachery punished and faithfulness recognized exciting and satisfying and will be captivated by the illustrations. --Louise L. Sherman, Anna C. Scott School, Leonia, NJ
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Elegantly told in the manner of a classic fairy tale, Lattimore's fable is set in China in the 13th century, a time when the dragon was believed to be "king of the heavens and ruler of fortune on earth." Young Kwan Yin is an orphan girl who travels with her loom, receiving food and shelter in exchange for weaving. Learning that there is a reward for weaving a dragon robe for the Emperor, she sets off for the palace. On her way, she befriends a sick old man who turns out to be the Emperor himself. The man says he is the keeper of the dragon shrine, and bravely Kwan Yin helps him protect it from a greedy overseer and general in the kingdom. In the end, Kwan Yin's goodness serves as a foil against the forces of evil, both within the kingdom and outside it. In burnished tones of brown and gold, Lattimore's intricate, sumptuous paintings transform each spread into a rich tapestry. Ages 6-10.
Copyright 1990 Reed Business Information, Inc.