A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park

This 2002 Newbery Medal Winner traces the life of ‘13 year old ‘Tree-ear’ who lives in a Korean village famous for its ceramics. He doesn’t have much, but he loves to watch master potter Min at work and he dreams of learning the craft one day.

Reluctantly Min agrees to let Tree-ear help him. Determined to do whatever it takes to prove himself, Tree-ear embarks on a dangerous journey to present his master’s work to the king, unaware it will change his life for ever.

It is easy to see how this book was awarded such a high honour for children’s literature. It has everything a good story needs; intrigue, adventure, struggle, triumph, beauty, nature, relationship, good character development - you name it, it has it!

It is beautifully told, gentle and well paced. Anyone who reads it will surely be inspired to seek out a bit of clay to play with, or at the very least look into Korean Pottery.

Set in Korea in the late 12th century it also offers a context and perspective not often covered in Western literature. The writing is simple enough for any young reader to keep up with, and wonderful for readalouds. You really must read it!