Young Fu of the Upper Yangtze

First published in 1932, this historical fiction book, set in China, is one of the earliest Newbery Medal winners. Moving from the peaceful countryside to the bustling city with his widowed mother, Young Fu is apprenticed to a coppersmith. As Young Fu faces a whirlwind of challenges and experiences, he learns lessons about honesty, courage, and morality. I loved the insight into the culture and the emphasis on moral character, as well as the heartwarming ending. Though not a super fast-paced adventure in all spots, it is very entertaining and well written—a great read for boys and girls.

(Reviewed by Jenny Phillips)