Written by: Christina Soontornvat
First line: A monster of a mango tree grew in the courtyard of Namwon Prison.
Why you should read this book: This is exactly the kind of story that modern readers of children's fantasy love: it's got magic mixed with realism, determined and admirable but flawed characters whose faults can be redeemed, a powerful message of social justice and equality, along with a compelling story set in a detailed and wonderful world. Pong is an orphan, born in Namwon Prison to a mother who died before he knew her, and it seems terribly unfair that the law requires him to stay in prison until he turns thirteen, and to be always branded with a mark that indicates he's been incarcerated. But the world outside Namwon Prison isn't any more fair, with the divide between rich and poor starkly delineated by their access to light, and when Pong finally finds his way out of prison, he must decide whether to protect himself from those who want to see him back in prison or use his talents to help others overcome impossible odds.
Why you shouldn't read this book: You're still trying to prove your worth to your parents, or you just found out you're adopted.
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