A Letter to the King

This ancient Chinese folktale--``originally written down over two thousand years ago''--focuses on family loyalty and the power of a determined girl. When a doctor fails to save the life of a boy who is a member of the king's family, he is ``brought to the capital and thrown into prison.'' Although girls are considered unimportant in this society, it is Ti Ying, the doctor's daughter, who eventually saves her father by boldly writing a letter to the king. The book's inventive design features Chinese characters arrayed above the stylized, earth-toned illustrations. On each left-hand page a small drawing highlights an element of the text opposite. The tale offers a beguiling modesty and an evocative look at an exotic time and place. Ages 4-8. (Aug.)