Firekeeper's Son

Description: In early 1800s Korea, news from the countryside reaches the king through signal fires. When his father is unable to light the fire one night, young Sang-hee must take his place, in this book by Newbery Medalist Park ("A Single Shard"). Full color.

Brief description:

Julie Downing has written and/or illustrated over thirty picture books. For Clarion, she has illustrated The Firekeeper's Son by Linda Sue Park, among others. Her books have received a Parents' Choice Award and a New York Public Library Best Books Award. She lives in San Francisco, California. For more information visit juliedowning.com.

Review Quotes:

"handsome, watercolor-and-pastel double-page pictures personalize the history...panoramic views...as the boy tends the flame that preserves peace" BOOKLIST Booklist, ALA

"a tale rooted in...history...watercolor illustrations glow with vibrancy... especially striking...A lovely telling that will bring readers back" KIRKUS REVIEWS Kirkus Reviews

"Suspenseful...Assured, empathetic storytelling involves readers in Sang-hee's inner conflict...Downing amplifies the tension with dramatically composed watercolor-and-pastel illustrations ...fascinating" PUBLISHERS WEEKLY, starred review Publishers Weekly, Starred

"An attractive celebration of unity, peace, and family heritage, Sang-hee's story also emphasizes...beauty, power, and responsibility." THE BULLETIN OF THE CENTER FOR CHILDREN'S BOOKS The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

"...compelling...Lyrical prose... Children will be intrigued...caught up in the riveting dilemma, and satisfied by the resolution." School Library Journal