Customer Reviews

Liang and the Magic Paintbrush (Reading Rainbow Books)

5 star:		(3)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

In this lively tale, a poor boy in China who longs to paint is given a magic paintbrush by a mysterious visitor. Suddenly the boy has the power to bring life to things that he paints. Liang uses this gift for good, until he must use his skill to outsmart an evil emperor who wants to use the magic brush for his own greedy purposes. The ending is a bit troublesome- not as completely fair and peaceful as we might like - but then, the tale is based on an old Chinese legend which, like Grimms' fairy tales, were probably a lot more scary than story books today. Still, the story is wonderful and exciting and the illustrations, though subtle, are lovely --delicate but colorful ink and watercolor drawings with lots of detail.

This is a simple story with beautiful pictures, though it's not particularly engaging. Neither my kids nor I enjoy it as much as our other Demi favorites -- One Grain of Rice, Firebird, and The Empty Pot -- which we adore. These other three not only have superlative pictures but wonderful stories, each in different ways.

The balance in the book is unique. The use of colors and drawn representations indicates the author/illustrator's appreciation and knowledge. A balance of the feel of famous Chinese art while still being Demi's eyes and heart. The study respects the societal thinking which can be both charitable, rewarding as well as harsh. The depiction of the boy defying the emperor's army is classic. The book can be a doorway into many concepts of life and culture, past and present.The endeavor is not sugar coated, or frightening to view or envision. The book is worthwhile without regard to either skimming through it or pausing to drink in every aspect of each page, words and illustrations.

I read this with my little kids after seeing a fantastic HBO Story - video version. (Wish that were available for sale - NOT.) We have enjoyed other Demi, but this one just didn't generate feeling. It needs a helping hand.

the book came in the condition advertised and in an expeditious manner, very happy with this seller's promptness and professionalism!