Confucius, born in China more than 500 years before Jesus, was a revolutionary thinker. Despite the supernatural elements supposedly surrounding his birth, his contributions to spiritual life were concrete. Rather than the "top-down" organization that shaped his society, Confucius wanted people to look out for one another, to live with compassion by following an early version of the Golden Rule, and to cement their society through ritual. Rulers who governed in this fashion would find a content populous also living in harmony. In this picture book for older readers, Demi offers a rather long text that includes both personal and Chinese history, but with a focus on the philosophy of Confucius. As in her numerous other books, her diminutive artwork centers the narrative. Pictures outlined in gold use wide swaths of empty spaces y, earth, walls a backdrop to Confucius' interactions with royalty, students, and everyday people. Readers will want to look closely at the artwork, and perhaps with the help of an adult, contemplate Confucius' message.

Using traditional legends, the limited historical facts available, and quotations from Confucius's own writing, Demi has created a readable picture-book biography that emphasizes the sage's philosophy and educational teachings--ideas that still live on twenty-five hundred years later. Demi's signature paint and ink illustrations--with their diminutive figures, intricate detail, and gold borders--are full of action. Bib.

This deftly illustrated picture book introduces Confucius, the great Chinese philosopher and teacher, to young readers. In the preface, the author clarifies that Confucius' life is "shrouded in legend," hence the juxtaposition of mythological and realistic characters to tell his story. It starts before Confucius was born, when a mythological creature, the qilin, presents Confucius' mother with a jade tablet engraved with the words "Your child will be a king without a crown." Confucius' potential for greatness is obvious from boyhood. He believes in the importance of ritual, and of all his activities, "he love[s] reading and studying most." As an adult, Confucius sees despair in the world around him and decides the best way to influence society is through education and eventually opens a school. He welcomes not only the wealthy, but also the poor, believing everyone should be given a chance to lead, and his teachings emphasize the need to govern with compassion and just behavior. Demi incorporates her subject's own words, taken from various translations of his Analects, throughout her account. Hues of blue, red, and her signature gold pop from the flat, two-dimensional scenes, which are framed in auspicious colors of red and gold. The lack of depth and perspective and the inclusion of symbolic creatures recall traditional Chinese paintings.An appealing biography done in classic Demi tradition, suitable for readers interested in Confucianism and its impact on Chinese culture and values. (sources, notes) (Picture book/biography. 8-12)

Gr 4-6 As corroborated facts of Confucius's life are scarce, Demi blends legend and folklore with the few known truths, as well as quotations from his The Analects, to tell the story of his life. While some things may leave readers confused (such as a passing reference to the warring states with no explanation), the text adeptly presents Confucian principles and the impact his ideas have had on China to the modern day. This book serves as a solid introduction to spark reader interest in the Chinese political philosopher; however, more in-depth biographies would need to be consulted for report purposes. Demi's beautiful and distinctive illustrations incorporate style elements and textile patterns from traditional Chinese art and make good use of her signature gold paint. VERDICT A solid purchase, especially for collections where Demi's previous biographies are appreciated. Jennifer Rothschild, Arlington County Public Libraries, VA