"This masterfully retold version of Cinderella presents real Korean
customs and includes dramatic, brightly colored illustrations"
(Children's Literature).
This is an enchanting and magical variant of the favorite fairy tale.
Publishers Weekly noted that "the text is especially noteworthy for
its instructive but unobtrusive incorporation of Korean words."
Children's Literature pointed out that "it should be noted that all
the illustrations*--from those depicting Korean rituals to the smallest
clothing details--*are the result of the illustrator's extensive
research and passionate interest in Korean culture."
Like the tree planted to honor her birth, Pear Blossom is beautiful, and
the pride of her elderly mother and father. But then her mother dies,
and her father remarries. Pear Blossom's stepmother resents her new
daughter's beauty.
Out of jealousy, she makes Pear Blossom perform impossible chores while
her own daughter, Peony, watches idly. But fortunately, Pear Blossom is
not alone. With the help of magical creatures--*togkabis--*she can
accomplish each task, and triumph over her stepmother's cruelty.
Notable Children's Trade Book in the Field of Social Studies
(NCSS/CBC)