A SINGLE SHARD by Linda Sue Park

Bibliogrpahy:

Park, Linda Sue. 2001. A Single Shard. New York: Sandpiper. ISBN: 978-0547534268

Plot Summary:

Tree-ear is a homeless young orphan who lives with is friend and mentor, Crane-man. One day, from obligation to repay an unfortunate debt and a bit of quick thinking, Tree-ear is able to become the apprentice to the most gifted potter in his small medieval Korean village. As Min and Tree-ear labor at the art of creating beautiful pottery an emissary from the emperor comes to their small village looking to award a royal commission to the finest potter. The entire village steps up to the challenge, each potter seeking to prove his worth and skill, but only one can receive the coveted commission. Through hard work, humility, and perseverance Tree-ear is able to find a home, pursue his love for pottery, gain a family, and help his master secure the royal commission.

Critical Analysis:

Park's story of a young man's journey into adulthood in medieval Korea resonates with timeless lessons and experiences that people of all ages can relate to and learn from. Tree-ear, the protagonist, learns lessons in hard work, perseverance, honesty, loyalty, courage, and love. Filled with important life lessons, A Single Shard is the perfect book to share with readers of all ages and walks of life.

Awards and Review(s):

2002 Newbery Medal Book
2002 ALA Best Book for Young Adults
2002 ALA Notable Book for Children
2001 Booklist Editor's Choice
2001 Capitol Choices Selection
2001 School Library Journal, Best Books of the Year
2001 New York Public Library, 100 Titles for Reading and Sharing

Publishers Weekly: “Park molds a moving tribute to perseverance and creativity in this finely etched novel set in mid- to late 12th-century Korea.”

School Library Journal: “This book will engage both individual readers and discussion groups;”

Connections:

*Tree-ear must face a difficult ethical choice of whether or not to tell Min of another potter's secret. Think of a time when you have had to make a difficult choice that tested your understanding of honesty and ethics. What choice did you make? How do you feel about your decision? What did you learn about yourself from this experience?

*Other books by Linda Sue Park:

Seesaw Girl. ISBN: 978-0547248882

When My Name Was Keoko. ISBN: 978-0547722399

The Firekeeper's Son. ISBN: 978-0547237695

The Third Gift. ISBN: 978-0547201955

Bee-Bim Bop!. With Ho Baek Lee. ISBN: 978-0547076713