Reading Hughart’s endearing historical fantasy trilogy, first published almost 20 years ago, is much like wandering blindfolded through a myth devised by a maniac, in the words of Master Li, the greatest and most frequently intoxicated wise man in a colorful seventh century China that never was. Slow, strong, and good-hearted peasant Number Ten Ox initially seeks Master Li’s help to cure a … bizarre plague and soon becomes his sidekick. Their rollicking adventures pit them against everyone from murderers and thieves to emperors and gods. Numerous Chinese legends, filtered through Ox’s simple perspective, blend seamlessly into tales both lighthearted and heartrending. Hughart’s many fans will welcome this modest alternative to the 1998 omnibus published by The Stars Our Destination bookstore, which commands high prices when it can be found at all. (Publishers Weekly Starred Review)
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I absolutely love this collection of Chinese folk tales? fairy tales? Whatever they are, they’re great. The author lived in China and understands the culture and mythology. The stories are funny, poignant and meaningful–not mention unlike anything you’ve ever read. I was thrilled that they’re available on Kindle because I believe the books …
My mother, Anne McCaffrey, and I used to re-read these books about once every 5 years. The magic doesn’t fade. Mum said of the first book, Bridge of Birds: “Master Li may have a slight flaw in his character but this book has none!”
I have thoroughly enjoyed, over and over, the three books in this collection.
I highly recommend them!
I found the first in this series, Bridge of Birds, many years ago. It is sweet and funny, vulnerable and kind, silly and sarcastic. It weaves Ancient China with ageless love, honor, mystery, and irony. I reread this series more often than I should say.
Whenever someone asks me about my all-time favourite books, I invariable whinge about not being able to choose just one. But if I’m pressed further, Barry Hughart’s Bridge of Birds is probably the first book I’ll mention.
The novel tells of the first adventure of Number 10 Ox (the villager who’s telling the story) as he’s trying to solve the …
One of my all time favorite books, including the slight-flaw in Master Li’s character.