Lost in Peach Blossom Paradise (Little Yu and the Treelings #1)

A forbidden trek to a secret village takes a young wanderer on the adventure of a lifetime in this whimsical novel from Liang. Little Yu mourns the end of her summer visit with her grandparents in the countryside, since it means she must start school again in the city. On a walk during her last day of vacation, she alone spots pink petals floating along the river. Reaching into the water, she is transported to the edge of Peach Blossom Paradise, a winding forest guarded by a stone tablet that reads “ENTRANCE HERE IS FORBIDDEN!” But courageous Little Yu is undeterred. She enters the wilderness with curiosity, not fear, and soon befriends the unique forest dwellers guarding their home. Embarking on a fantastical journey that recalls elements of Lewis Carroll and Hayao Miyazaki, Little Yu must rely on instinct—and help from her mystical new friends—to overcome obstacles and return home. Ink-wash drawings emphasize vivid, imagery-rich prose depicting the vast expanse of the forest and the impish nature of its memorable inhabitants. It’s a propulsive fantasy series starter that presents Chinese culture and mythology in a gorgeously rendered package. Ages 8–12. (May)