Bashara Likes Books

This is the story of an old widow who possesses a gift for weaving detailed brocades. She has happily used her talents to support her family until the day she encounters a painting at the market - the scene it represents instantly speaks to her innermost desires. She becomes so obsessed with the scene that she purchases it with her rice money. The oldest sons become angry and resentful, and only her youngest son offers the old mother compassion and understanding. He suggests she use her weaving talent to make a tapestry of the scene. She agrees and spends the next three years painstakingly recreating the painting in brocade form. But no sooner has she finished the project when it is magically spirited away. Fearing their old mother may die of a broken heart each son in turn sets out a quest to retrieve the brocade. Which son will succeed? And will he make it in time to save his mother?

Based on a Chinese legend this story contains some very familiar folktale elements and a somewhat predictable plot. But none of this detracts from the experience at all. It's a beautiful and compelling retelling and there is something wholly unique in the old mother's yearning for something better beyond her ordinary existence. And the accompanying art is astoundingly phenomenal - sumptuous, lush, and minutely detailed. And although their styles are quite dissimilar I can't help but think of Kinuko Craft - another master of storybook illustrations. I'll be keeping an eye out for more of this author/illustrator's work. Highly recommended!