A Single Shard

Bibliography:

Park, Linda Sue. 2001. A Single Shard. New York: Houghton Mifflin. ISBN: 0395978270.

Summary:

Tree-ear is a 13-year-old orphan in 12th-century Korea. He lives with father figure Crane-man under a bridge, and they forage for food around the small village of Ch’ulp’o. But when he gets a break from looking for food, what Tree-ear likes to do best is watch the potter Min work at his wheel. Ch’ulp’o is famous for a particular kind of beautiful pottery – Koryo celadon - and Min is a master. When Tree-ear accidentally breaks a piece, he starts working for Min to pay off his debt, and then he continues working for no pay because his deepest desire is to learn the trade himself. Min is short-tempered and is burdened by a tragic past, but his wife loves Tree-ear and sees that he and Crane-man have enough food. Tree-ear goes on a long journey to the capitol city to show Min’s work, and even though robbers break the precious vases, a single shard of the fine pottery is enough to gain Min a royal commission – the lifelong dream of all potters. When Tree-ear returns, he is heartbroken to find out that Crane-man has died, but Min and his wife take him in as their son.

Analysis:

The story is set in medieval Korea, and an author’s note discusses the cultural and historical details she wove into the story and shows that she did extensive research for the book in order to make it as accurate and authentic as possible.

This is a great coming-of-age story, as Tree-ear struggles with his past and future and questions of right and wrong. He is loyal to the potter, even when Min at first refuses to ever teach him to make pottery. He is respectful and kind, and he cares for Crane-man (who is disabled) as best he can. But Tree-ear can also be impetuous and resentful, and has to learn the right way (and often the slow way) to do things.

The book is well-written, with an engaging plot and easy-flowing dialogue. Park portrays cultural details in the food (rice, fish, eating with chopsticks), customs (bowing, apprenticeship, temples), landscape (small villages, Rock of the Falling Flowers), and more. Readers will learn a lot about making pottery from start to finish.

Reviews/Awards:

2002 Newbery Award Winner

“Park convincingly conveys how a community of artists works (chopping wood for a communal kiln, cutting clay to be thrown, etc.) and effectively builds the relationships between characters through their actions… She charts Tree Ear's transformation from apprentice to artist and portrays his selflessness during a pilgrimage to Songdo.” Publisher’s Weekly

“Many of the issues transcend centuries and cultures: What is home? Can one own a creative idea? How much of an art object must be seen in order to judge its quality? This book will engage both individual readers and discussion groups.” School Library Journal

Connections:
*Study celadon pottery and the way potters made their ware in medieval Korea.