"Written in the style of ancient Chinese poets . while splendid ink-and-watercolor illustrations poignantly capture the princess's leave-taking." - Kirkus Reviews (starred review)A young Chinese princess is sent from her father's kingdom to marry the king of a far-off land. She must leave behind her home of splendors: sour plums and pink peach petals and - most precious and secret of all - the small silkworm. She begs her father to let her stay, but he insists that she go and fulfill her destiny as the queen of Khotan. An enchanting tale of hidden beauty and fierce courage, here is a coming-of-age tale of a brave young princess, retold in the style of T'ang Dynasty poetry and illustrated with charm and grace.
Red Butterfly : How a Princess Smuggled the Secret of Silk Out of China