Korean Children's Favorite Stories

April 12, 2004
After collecting the literature of Japan and Bali, author Kim So-un and artist Jeong Kyoung-Sim introduce a host of characters in Korean Children's Favorite Stories, including a wily old woman who outwits "The Bad Tiger" and, in "The Pumpkin Seeds," a pair of brothers-one proud, one humble-who get their just deserts. Smoky watercolors bring other creatures, such as demons and snakes, to life as well.

November 1, 2004
K-Gr 5-These 13 tales first appeared in Story Bag: A Collection of Korean Folk Tales (Tuttle, 1955; o.p.) and have been newly illustrated. Though no source notes are included, an introduction by the author speaks to the authenticity of the selections. The collection includes elements shared by many cultures, such as a flood story, and others with a unique sensibility. A variety of animals appear, including tigers, both good and bad, and snakes, depicted as dragons. The delicate watercolor illustrations make the stories accessible to children, and the square format and the calligraphic quality of the titles contribute to the overall sense of design. Appropriately, the opening tale speaks to the importance of sharing stories, and this collection succeeds in making these little-known offerings accessible to a new audience.-Robin L. Gibson, formerly at Perry County District Library, New Lexington, OH

Copyright 2004 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

August 1, 2004
Gr. 3-6, younger for reading aloud. This collection of 13 Korean folktales was originally published in 1955 as " The Story Bag." Kyoung-Sim's new watercolor illustrations, filled with animals, demons, and resourceful folk, make this edition much more attractive, and the short, straightforward retellings are well suited for independent reading as well as for reading aloud. The handsome anthology will enrich multicultural studies and expand folklore collections.(Reprinted with permission of Booklist, copyright 2004, American Library Association.)