Set long ago, "when the Earth was very young," this story explains the origins of the Chinese moon goddessChang'e is full of love. Her love is returned-by the trees, the animals, the wind, and, most of all, her husband, Hou-Yi. The pair travel together "to protect the people and create caring communities." One day, 10 scorching suns appear in the sky. With life on Earth on the brink of destruction, Chang'e and Hou-Yi cannot stand by. A formidable archer, Hou-Yi pierces the suns with his arrows until only one remains. In thanks, the heavenly Jade Emperor and his goddess wife, Xiwangmu, give them an elixir that grants them immortality. But there's only enough for one of them, so the lovers decide to live out the rest of their lives as humans-together. When Peng Meng, Hou Yi's jealous apprentice, schemes to steal the elixir for himself, Chang'e sacrifices their mortal future together and drinks the elixir herself. As explained in the author's note, the legend of Chang'e has many variations. Moore centers her retelling on the couple's kindhearted qualities and their enduring love. As moon goddess, Chang'e watches over the Earth for all eternity. Hou-Yi spends the rest of his living days devoted to honoring Chang'e and their shared passion of community care, and the story of her sacrifice sparks a celebration in her honor: the Mid-Autumn Festival. Li's painterly illustrations beautifully capture Moore's text.A lovely retelling. (Mandarin version of the tale)(Picture book. 4-8)

Gr 2–4 —A much-loved Chinese folktale gets an update in this lovely picture book. Beautiful Chang'e and her loving husband, Hou Yi the great archer, lead an idyllic life. When nine ominous suns appear in the sky threatening famine and hardship, Hou Yi shoots them down. The grateful Empress of Heaven offers Hou Yi a vial of immortality but there is only enough for one. Neither Chang'e nor Hou Yi wish to be separated from the other, but when his jealous apprentice tries to steal the potion, Chang'e drinks it. She floats away to the moon, along with her pet rabbit, eternally separated from Hou Yi, but "watching over him and all those she loved." Lush illustrations underscore the romantic themes of their story. An afterword offers more information on the tale's widespread appeal and variations, making this a good choice for cross-cultural studies. For additional context, pair with: Grace Lin's Thanking the Moon. A Mandarin translation is included. VERDICT With its focus on Chang'e and Hou Yi's noble sacrifice and enduring love, detailed in exquisite illustrations, this tale has read-aloud potential and should find a home in public and school library collections.—Marilyn Taniguchi