LITTLE EAGLE

The creator of The Magic Horse of Han Gan (2006) offers another set of big, dramatic illustrations done in a classical Chinese style—but this time in service to a poorly written (or poorly translated) story. Orphaned by cruel General Zhao during the building of the Great Wall, a lad is taken in by sage Master Yang, studies the Eagle Boxing style of kung fu and then carries on the tradition after Zhao “treacherously attacked Master Yang in the back” during the climactic battle. Whether seen as tiny figures in rocky, bleak landscapes or closer up, scowling and posing in balletic fighting postures, Yang and the lad are strongly present in the art—as is Master Yang’s particularly fierce-looking eagle—and will make a more lasting impression than the terse, sketchy text. Fans of Emily Arnold McCully’s Beautiful Warrior (1998) may be mildly appreciative. (Picture book. 7-9)