A Single Shard

‘Delightful... I read the novel with enormous pleasure and admiration.’ 

-- Philip Pullman

‘The novel has the deceptive simplicity of a folk-tale… Reflective readers who surrender to the quiet rhythms of the prose and the plot will surely find pleasure both in the crafting of the pots and in the receptive awareness of Tree-ear.’

* Books for Keeps, ***** *

‘Park moulds a moving tribute to perseverance and creativity in this finely etched novel set in mid-to-late 12th century Korea. . . Readers will not soon forget these characters or their sacrifices.’ 

-- Publishers Weekly, starred review

‘Tree-ear’s story conveys a time and place far away and long ago, but with a simplicity and immediacy that is both graceful and unpretentious. A timeless jewel.’ 

-- Kirkus

‘This book not only gives readers insight an unfamiliar time and place, but it is also a great story.’

-- School Library Journal, starred review

‘Readers will feel the hunger and cold that Tree-ear experiences, as well as his shame, fear, gratitude, and love. A well-crafted novel with an unusual setting.’

-- Booklist, starred review

‘Park's story is alive with fascinating information about life and art in ancient Korea.’

-- Horn Book Guide

‘This finely crafted novel brings 12th-century Korea and these indelible characters to life.’

-- SLJ Best Books of the Year

‘A great read about skills, workmanship, friendship, hardship, different cultures, bravery and perseverance.’

-- Independent Book Rev