The Sons of the Dragon King: A Chinese Legend

The Chinese folktale is much enhanced by the paintings which marry a whimsical and anthropomorphic depiction of the dragons with the fluid grace of traditional Chinese brushwork. The static woodcuts of each dragon son in his historical role were a great counterpoint to the paintings, showing a diversity of artistic expression.

This beautiful Chinese legend tells the tale of how the nine sons of the Dragon King came to be symbols of different parts of Chinese culture. This is a powerful story about recognizing people's strengths, even if initially it is something that is seen as negative or not special, if you look closer with an open heart and mind, you can turn a negative into a positive. This would be a great read aloud for younger and older students to remind them that everyone is special in their own way.

I loved the show of Chinese traditions and and culture as a country. The story itself showed how a father saw the gifts that were in each of his son's and how each person has something unique to add to the world. I think this book could be used in an activity to which they find some of the virtues in themselves as well as in each other.

This is a story of the king and his nine sons. Each of them representing a different symbol in Chinese culture. The king gave them all special tasks that represent them. This story is about recognizing and understanding that everybody has different strengths. I enjoyed reading this book, I think it is good for kids to read because it shows that everybody is special in their own way and that you should never try and be like somebody else.

This book is an old Chinese legend about the dragon kind and his nine sons. Each son has a different special talent, so the dragon king, instead of scolding them for not studying to be the king, gives them a special task. The nine sons of the king have meaning in everyday Chinese live, whether adorned on instruments or doors, over rivers or under pillars. The ink art is cool, and it's neat to have a glimpse into ancient Chinese culture that most don't get to see.

I loved that I could the names of the sons written in Ancient Chinese font in the form of stamps which I know are still used today in certain areas of the world. I loved the ink paintings of each of the sons throughout the story. Each son is represented by a Chinese architectural design. I related quite well to this story because I grew up watching different dramas that took place in ancient China, noticing all of these distinguishing pieces of architecture. The idea of the dragon is already so powerful in my mind, so reading this book really made me more knowledgeable about the dragons I see from here and there.

Summary:The Dragon King receives complaints about the behavior of each of his nine sons. Each as a behavior that is not fit for the son of a king. Upon examining each son, the Dragon King finds that each son is well suited for a unique task.
Review: Rather than condemning his sons for their odd behavior he gives them jobs that they will succeed at. We are all unique, and this is good. With a little guidance, we can all succeed.
Art is well explained and is culturally and historical relevant. Young explains where the symbols for each son can be seen today.