I, Doko: The Story of a Basket
By Ed Young
Illustrated by Ed Young
Published by Penguin Books
“[The illustrations] give dignity, richness and power to a traditional Asian tale that embodies both the Golden Rule and respect for the elderly.” —Kirkus Reviews
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Description
Doko is only a simple basket. It is not only grain from the field that he carries—he has also carried his master’s child, and wood for the fire. He was there when the child became a man and married. And he very nearly had to carry the grandfather away forever. Luckily, someone wise beyond their years spoke up and made it possible for Doko to carry the grandfather home again instead.
As ever, Ed Young has taken a simple fable and made it into a masterpiece of stunning illustration and expert storytelling. This beautiful and unique book celebrates the generations with great originality.
Reviews & Accolades
“The epigraph from Kung Fu Tze-”What one wishes not upon oneself, one burdens not upon another”-aptly summarizes this simple parable set in Nepal…The dynamic, jewel-toned pastel, collage and gouache illustrations, bordered and flecked with gold give dignity, richness and power to a traditional Asian tale that embodies both the Golden Rule and respect for the elderly.” —Kirkus Reviews
” Young emphasizes the story’s parable-like qualities by combining simply stroked figures, flattened backgrounds, and gold embellishments that call forth Buddhist and Hindu sacred paintings. As increasing numbers of families anticipate in-home care for elderly relatives, parents will want to share this story’s poignant message with their children. The book may also inspire students’ recastings of familiar tales from unusual points of view.” —Jennifer Mattson, Booklist
“A basket recounts its role in the stages of its owner’s life….A superb rendition of a tale with universal resonance.” —The Horn Book
Groups Represented
Nepalese
Themes
Family relationships, respect for elders, oral tradition
Setting
Nepalese village
Author Research
TBA
Engagement Projects
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