
Reach for this book when your child is reeling from a sudden disappointment or, conversely, when they are overly fixated on a single stroke of 'good luck.' This classic Taoist parable, retold with stunning collage illustrations, follows an old man whose horse runs away. While his neighbors label every event as either a blessing or a curse, the wise man remains calm, understanding that life's fortunes are interconnected and ever-changing. It is a grounding read for children aged 5 to 10 who are learning to navigate the emotional highs and lows of growing up. By focusing on perspective and patience, the story helps children develop resilience and a more balanced outlook on life's unpredictable turns.
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Sign in to write a reviewThe book deals with physical injury (a broken leg) and the threat of war/conscription. The approach is metaphorical and philosophical, rooted in Taoist tradition. The resolution is realistic and contemplative rather than a traditional 'happily ever after,' emphasizing balance over binary outcomes.
A thoughtful 7-year-old who tends to have 'big' reactions to small setbacks, or a child interested in history and horses who is ready for a story that challenges the idea of a simple ending.
The book is safe to read cold, but parents should be ready to explain what 'conscription' or 'the draft' means in the context of the ending, as the son is saved from war because of his disability. A parent might choose this after hearing their child say 'This is the worst day ever!' because of a canceled playdate or a lost toy, or when a child is boasting excessively about a win.
Younger children (5-6) focus on the horses and the literal 'lost and found' aspect. Older children (8-10) begin to grasp the philosophical irony and the concept of the 'silver lining' or the 'cloud in the silver lining.'
Ed Young's sophisticated paper-collage artwork elevates the simple folk style into a high-art experience, and the refusal to provide a 'final' answer makes it a perfect tool for critical thinking.
Set in ancient China near the Great Wall, an old man loses his prized horse. Neighbors offer sympathy, but he asks, 'How do you know it is bad luck?' The horse returns with a pack of wild horses (good luck), which leads to his son falling and breaking a leg (bad luck), which ultimately spares the son from being drafted into a deadly war (good luck). Each event is a catalyst for the next.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.