The Little Monkey's Journey

K-Gr 3–When the Old Monkey King is knocked unconscious trying to save Little Monkey, Little Monkey undertakes a dangerous journey to find the Old Immortal and get a pill to save the old king. Along the way, he meets many supernatural creatures that teach him the skills he needs to complete his journey and to become immortal himself. In addition to giving him the pill, the Old Immortal also gives Little Monkey a new name, Sun Wukong, or Monkey King. Sun Wukong is a central figure in Chinese folklore, most notably in the 16th-century classic “Journey to the West.” Li’s telling differs from most versions, as there is little resemblance between the beloved trickster who seeks immortality out of boredom and the selfless hero shown here. The English text lacks the excitement, danger, and wonder present in the traditional story, and some cultural translations are clumsy and unnecessary. Li’s large watercolors evoke Chinese paintings and are presented in full spreads. While serviceable, this title will not replace Ed Young’s Monkey King (HarperCollins, 2001).–Jennifer Rothschild, Arlington County Public Libraries, VA