Awards
Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books Blue Ribbon Award
ALA Notable Children's Book
School Library Journal Best Book of the Year
New York Public Library 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing
Nominated for the 2000-2001 North Carolina Children's Book Award
Synopses & Reviews
Mingyi is trapped. If she doesn't marry the bandit Soong Ling, he will ruin her family's business -- and her life!
Confused and desperate, she can think of only one person to help her: the legendary Wu Mei, the "beautiful warrior." Once before the astonishing kung fu master had helped Mingyi fight off a thief. Could Wu Mei defend her again?
The master agrees to help, but not in the way the young woman expects. Instead, Mingyi is given a one-year crash course in kung fu philosophy and technique, which gives her not only the strength to defend herself against her bully of a suitor, but a way of life.
Today the methods named after Wu Mei and her most famous pupil are the most popular forms of kung fu taught around the world.
Review
"Historical yet energetic, this will make for a vigorous readaloud (one you may want to save until just before recess)." Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (Starred Review)
Review
"Celebrating discipline and inner strength while retelling legends connected with styles of kung fu, this story authentically recreates a period of Chinese history and gives readers not one but two lively heroines." School Library Journal (Starred Review)
Synopsis
This is the dramatic, multilayered story of two legendary women warriors, Wu Mei, the "beautiful warrior", and her most famous pupil, Mingyi, set in the vibrant colors of China.
About the Author
Emily Arnold McCully is the illustrator of Journey from Peppermint Street, the first children's book to be awarded the National Book Award. She received the Caldecott Medal for Mirette on the Highwire and the Christopher Award for Picnic. She lives in Chatham, New York and Manhattan.
Kids Q&A
Read the Kids' Q&A with Emily Arnold McCully