Book details
Saints (Turtleback School & Library Binding Edition)
Description
China, 1898. An unwanted fourth daughter, Four-Girl isn't even given a proper name by her family. She finds friendship--and a name, Vibiana--in the most unlikely of places: Christianity. But China is a dangerous place for Christians. The Boxer Rebellion is murdering Westerners and Chinese Christians alike. Torn between her nation and her Christian friends, Vibiana will have to decide where her true loyalties lie . . . and whether she is willing to die for her faith. "----""Boxers & Saints" is a groundbreaking novel in two volumes. This innovative format presents two parallel tales about young people caught up on opposite sides of a violent rift. "Saints "tells Vibiana's story, and the companion volume, "Boxers," tells the story of Little Bao, a young man who joins the Boxer Rebellion. "American Born Chinese" author Gene Luen Yang brings his trademark magical realism to the complexities of the Boxer Rebellion, and lays bare the universal foundations of extremism, rebellion, and faith.
Age
12-18
Text complexity
beginner
Length
176 pages
Why to read
- Educational Value: 'Saints' offers a historical perspective on the Boxer Rebellion in China, providing readers with insights into the cultural and religious conflicts of the time. It's an engaging way to learn about a significant period in Chinese history.
- Cultural Understanding: The book explores themes of identity, faith, and belonging from the perspective of a young Chinese girl who converts to Christianity. This narrative can help readers gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of cultural and religious dynamics in a historical context.
- Artistic Merit: Gene Luen Yang is known for his compelling storytelling and artwork. 'Saints' is no exception, with its unique visual style that enhances the narrative and brings the characters to life. The graphic novel format makes the historical content accessible and engaging for a wide audience.
- Critical Acclaim: 'Saints' is part of the 'Boxers & Saints' duology, which has been highly praised and was a finalist for the National Book Award. Reading it allows one to engage with a work that has been recognized for its literary and artistic contributions to the graphic novel genre.