Shepard retells a popular story in Chinese opera, the tale of Lady White Snake, a serpent that becomes a human woman for love, only to be betrayed by her spouse. Richly patterned images that call up Chinese and Japanese sources, as well as impressionism, bring this version to life for older readers. Children who eagerly watched the movie Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon will recognize the fierce grace in Lady White Snake's swordplay, a grace evident even while she's pregnant. Notes at the back talk about Chinese opera stories, costumes, and actors, as well as the geography and cultural content of the tale. The animated DVD version is also available at DVD. Ages 4 - 8.
Retold By Aaron Shepard and Illustrated by Song Nan Zhang, Hardcover, English, 33 pages, 8.75'' x 11.25''
