Review: Little White Duck by Na Liu and Andres Vera Martinez

SUMMARY FROM NETGALLEY.COM:

The world is changing for two girls in China in the 1970s. Da Qin—Big Piano—and her younger sister, Xiao Qin—Little Piano—live in the city of Wuhan with their parents. For decades, China's government had kept the country separated from the rest of the world. When their country's leader, Chairman Mao, dies, new opportunities begin to emerge. Da Qin and Xiao Qin soon learn that their childhood will be much different than the upbringing their parents experienced.
Eight short stories—based on the author's own life—give readers a unique look at what it was like to grow up in China during this important time in history. 

MY TAKE:

I've always been fascinated about China, and since I like graphic novels, this book is perfect for me.

Little White Duck is composed of eight short stories from the author's life in China. The images in this book are not of the industrialized China we see most often today. Life then was harsher and you get a feel for that time because of the coloring of the book.

The illustration style is perfect for the story. It feels distinctly Chinese, even though upon closer observation, it's more of the combination of coloring, illustration and font that makes this work.

Thanks to NetGalley and Graphic Universe for the e-ARC. Publication date of Little White Duck is on October 1, 2012.

THE GOOD:

1. The coloring and illustrations are perfect for the topic.
2. The stories give you a glimpse of 1970s China.
3. You learn about Chinese culture.

THE BAD:

1. Some may not find the illustration style unappealing.

FAVORITE QUOTE/S:

We would also make different kinds of meatballs- of fish, tofu, and pork- fry them, and then dry them out for the feast. 

READ IT IF:

1. You are fascinated by Chinese culture.
2. You like graphic novels.
3. You are a history buff.

RATING:



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