Hoang Breaks the Lucky Teapot

The prized teapot is one of the few things Hoang's family brought to the U.S. from Vietnam--a gift from the boy's grandmother and imagined receptacle of good luck. In one unfortunate moment, though, Hoang accidentally shatters the pot, releasing the good fortune and allowing in evil spirits. The courageous boy makes several attempts to restore the pot--and thereby the family's fortunes--and finally succeeds. Breckler's first book for children is an admirable effort, and her inclusion of Vietnamese words and phrases is commendable. Her telling, however, seems listless and meandering--the narrative lacks tension. (Also, Hoang's parents, at least by Western standards, seem unnecessarily severe.) Though Frankel's dark, shadowy illustrations occasionally obscure their subjects, this lack of clear focus may invite interpretation--and possible discussion--by young readers. The symbolism of the teapot holding immigrants' future in a new country and a child's resourceful course of action provide a worthwhile lesson in the resiliency of the human spirit. Ages 4-8. (Apr.)