Five Heavenly Emperors: Chinese Myths of Creation

This book begins, appropriately enough, ""in the beginning,"" with Chinese lore about the first stirrings of the universe, and goes on to describe the creative acts of the five emperors of the title (one for each of the five Chinese elements: earth, fire, wood, gold and water). Unfortunately, the lack of thoughtful design may discourage readers. The placement of the text suggests that little attention was given to balance or presentation-in stark contrast to Zhang's (A Little Tiger in the Chinese Night) graceful, elaborate artwork. The fluidity of line and subtle colors of his illustrations echo centuries of tradition, while the sense of detail gives the work a personal stamp. The stories themselves are ably, if a bit diffidently told, and the book also includes a chart of ""Who's Who in Heaven,"" a taichi map and an elegantly printed glossary of common Chinese words. Ages 8-up. (Nov.)