Synopses & Reviews
In this exciting interpretation of the legend of how papermaking spread throughout the world, a Chinese grandfather and his grandson are captured by the great sultan of Samarkand. They bargain for their freedom by agreeing to teach the Arabs the art of making paper.
Review
"A historical note helps young readers make the leap between folklore and fact. . . . Lyrical watercolor paintings perfectly complement the spare, engaging text." Kirkus Reviews
Synopsis
In A.D. 751, an old Chinese grandfather and his grandson are captured by the Great Sultan of Samarkand. Rather than be sold into slavery, they are granted seven days to prove Young Wuand#8217;s claim that they can and#147;make clouds.and#8221; Grandfather and grandson set to work, using only what they have with them: their rope shoes, a walking stick, and a worn carrying sack. The result is Chinese paper, earning them their freedom and marking a turning point in human history. This paperback edition includes a new map not available in the hardcover edition.
About the Author
Master storyteller James Rumford combines his love for art and history in his picture books. Each of his books is vastly different in its content, design, and illustrations but one aspect remains constant throughout his work: his passion about his subjects. Rumford, a resident of Hawaii, has studied more than a dozen languages and worked in the Peace Corps, where he traveled to Africa, Asia, and Afghanistan. He draws from these experiences and the history of his subject when he is working on a book. His book Sequoyah: The Cherokee Man Who Gave His People Writing was a 2005 Sibert Honor winner.