From the Publisher
Malila doesn't know what to expect when her mother leaves her at her grandmother's house in a small village in Thailand. Grandmother tells young Malila that her mother has gone to America to make a new life. As the years go by, Malila hears Grandmother's stories and learns the traditions of their country. Malila learns too what it means to be an outsider due to a family secret that turns the villagers against her. When Malila is taunted by her classmates, Grandmother tells her "the dragon has breathed upon you today. The dragon's breath brings great pain and sorrow, but it can turn coal into diamond." It's not until Malila discovers her own special talent that she can finally gain sanouk, the joy of living.
From Judy Silverman - Children's Literature
Lovely, poetic language and a real knowledge of Thai village life make this book a joy.
From School Library Journal
Gr 4-6This gentle story portrays the prior experiences and emotions of many immigrantshardship, vivid memories, and hope. It also reveals much about contemporary Thai culture. This invitingly short book will attract reluctant older readers as well as students assigned to learn something about an Eastern culture.Susan Hepler, Alexandria City Public Schools, VA.
From Betsy Hearne - Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books
It's unusual to find a novel that covers nine years in under a hundred pages, is set in a culture unfamiliar enough to third and fourth graders that it requires considerable explanation, and--in spite of these potential problems--still works. It works because the plot emerges honestly from the characters.. . . In general, the style is simple and clean, and scenes selected for emphasis are believably blended into a sense of passing years. . . this is an excellent choice for reading aloud or encouraging kids to read alone.
From Kirkus Reviews
Strong, sympathetic characters and the evocative Thai setting are an integral part of this well-told story with the universal theme of overcoming adversity; it's a quick read, but a rich one, and a humble obeisance to the uncertainties of growing up.
From Booklist
Gr. 4-7. Giles' poetic novel tells the story of Malila, a young Thai girl whose mother leaves her in the care of her grandmother after her father's sudden death. The story is simply written, and the beauty of the Thai culture emerges on every page Susan DeRonne