cover image Father’s Chinese Opera

Father’s Chinese Opera

Rich Lo. Skyhorse/Sky Pony, $16.95 (40p) ISBN 978-1-62873-610-6

Just as one has to learn to walk before running, this autobiographical story demonstrates that it takes time and practice to join the acrobats of the Chinese opera. Lo’s young narrator is stung when he isn’t allowed to join the opera after training with its best acrobat, but he eventually learns the value of patience. Splashed with bright splotches of watercolor, Lo’s drawings highlight the ornate costumes and dramatic movements of the performers, as well as his young hero’s pride, annoyance, and determination. Lo, whose father composed Chinese opera, offers extensive background about the art form and his own family in an afterword. Ages 3–6. Agent: Anna Olswanger, Liza Dawson Associates. (June)