Chang’e on the Moon (Everlasting Tales, #1) by Cornelia Li, Jaime Chu, Katrina Moore
on September 3, 2024
ISBN: 0063295806
Genres: Folklore
Format: Picture Book Fiction
Goodreads

Everlasting Tales: Chang’e on the Moon

Retold by Katrina Moore

 

In this picture book for ages 4-8, Katrina Moore and Cornelia Li re- tell the Chinese legend of Chang’e, the moon goddess. Chang’e is a kind and beautiful woman who deeply loves her husband, Hou Yi, a talented archer who travels from village to village to purge communities from monsters and create caring communities. One morning, multiple suns rose in the sky, scorching the earth and threatening life. Hou Yi shoots arrows to destroy the extra suns until only one remained. To reward Hou Yi, the heavenly goddess presented him with a single elixir of immortality. Hou Yi and Chang’e’s love was so strong that they both declined the elixir, choosing to remain together on Earth. Despite hiding the elixir for safety, Hou Yi’s apprentice, Peng Meng, found it and wanted to use it to rule the world forever. Chang’e realized she must get rid of the elixir once and for all. With the help of her animal friends, Chang’e took back the elixir and drank it herself, which caused her to float way to the moon (considered part of Heaven). Hou Yi was heartbroken to be parted from Chang’e, but he spent the rest of his life sharing the story of her sacrifice everywhere he went.

Chang’e’s bravery and selfless sacrifice not only saved her people but also inspired the annual Mid-Autumn Festival, during which participants give thanks to the moon for their harvest. To this day, friends and family gather every year to share mooncakes and to tell the tale of Chang’e. This lovely story of courage, altruism, and enduring love is underscored by the beautiful and vivid painted illustrations.

4 stars

Reviewed by Lindsey Hopkins, Jay-Niles Memorial Library, Jay