A Thousand Beginnings and Endings edited by Ellen Oh and Elise Chapman - OPTIONAL

A Thousand Beginnings and Endings edited by Ellen Oh and Elise Chapman, 339 Pages. SHORT STORIES. Greenwillow Books, 2018. $11.

Content: Language R (10 swears, 3 “f”); Mature Content: PG-13; Violence: PG-13

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS – OPTIONAL

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

16 stories by Asian writers based on East and South Asian myths, folktales, and legends. There are stories that appeal to every reader. Tales of Samurai, Bollywood dances, RPG's, androids, alternate realities, shape shifters, ghosts, love, revenge, and heartache. This wonderful compilation of short stories contain opportunities for discovery, self reflection, and discussion. If only the mountain spirit had waited a moment longer. What is it that really makes us human? Is revenge as sweet as anticipated? A sister transforms into a bird to escape captivity. A smile can be deadly. There is a reason some woods are forbidden. Perhaps all we need to be, is a fish.

Most stories are appropriate for 7th - 12th grade, however, some stories have references to love-making, “sexed-up” music, harem relationships, and suicide. 1 of the 16 stories contains all the “f” language. Each story has a short afterward by the author describing the original tale. These memorable stories could be read aloud in class and are valuable to teach perspective and understanding of different cultures.

Reviewer: Kara S.