From Publishers Weekly
Bosse's (Captives of Time; Deep Dream of the Rain Forest) latest offering excels as both fiction and history, telling a moving tale of fraternal love and courage as it reveals a wealth of insights into the traditions and politics of medieval China. Set in the 16th century, the story revolves around two brothers, Hong and Chen. The studious Chen must travel from the family's tiny Sichuan village to Beijing and the Forbidden City, having earned the right to participate in the palace examination of the kingdom's most learned scholars. Hong, the more practical brother, elects himself guardian and companion for the trip. While Chen struggles with the difficult exams, Hong joins a secret society dedicated to overthrowing the Ming dynasty. Performing several dangerous missions for the group, Hong discovers his calling as a soldier and adventurer. A pirate attack, several brief flirtations and a stint with an imaginative inventor are just a few of the many stirring episodes. Bosse memorably conveys the workings of a culture that balances the needs for both military and scholarly institutions, and his detailed descriptions of the rivers and cities of China have a visceral impact. Moreover, he allows the closeness between the two brothers to unfold over the course of the narrative, illustrating that difficulties and struggles are an integral part of human growth. Ages 12-up.
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From School Library Journal
Grade 6-10-In Imperial China, recruitment for public office was effected through a series of competitive examinations. In this story, which takes place during the late Ming Dynasty (late 16th to early 17th-century C.E.), young Lao Chen journeys from his hometown to the capital of his province for the provincial exams, then to Beijing for the nationals. An aloof, brilliant, yet impractical scholar, Chen is intent more on testing his book knowledge and literary finesse than on gaining political power. He is accompanied by his younger brother and self-appointed guardian, Hong, who is practical and worldly wise. The two traverse a nation in decline, replete with peasant rebellions, secret societies, armies on the move, and vivid characters from all levels of society. As one brother crowns his achievements with a government post, the other secures his position in a secret society dedicated to bringing down that government. The contrast between the two siblings and their activities is skillfully realized in a well-developed plot. The handling of the examinations, which could have been deadly, is lyrical and interesting. Hong and Chen are both full blooded, as are most of the minor characters. The portrait of China at this point in history is largely accurate, marred only by a few inconsequential anachronisms. A unique and absorbing novel.
John Philbrook, San Francisco Public LibraryCopyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
