The Reading Warehouse

As a little seed one day will

become a great tree, as a flowing river

can carve a mighty rock...

One day the work you do will show too

Even as a young boy in eleventh-century China, Su Shih was clearly special. After finding a rare inkstone, he began to write stories and verses expressing his love of the natural world. His words flowed effortlessly. His brush danced across the paper.

Su Shih grew up to become a leading scholar and statesman, eventually taking the name Su Dongpo. Integrating his love of natural order and humanity into his writings and civic works, Su Dongpo promoted justice and condemned corruption - often at his own peril. His life was rife with reversals of fortune; but through it all he retained his grace, his humility, and his compassion.

Award-winning author and artist Demi has created a graceful tribute to one of history's most accomplished yet overlooked figures. Su Dongpo's life truly transcends the ages and is a shining example of dignity, ingenuity, courage and resilience.

DEMI is an author and illustrator of more than one hundred books for children, mostly biographies and folklore. She is known for her perceptive texts and elegant illustrations with golden accents, and her books have received numerous awards and accolades, among them ALA Notable Children's Books, The New York Times Best Illustrated Books, Notable Books for a Global Society, American Bookseller Pick of the Lists, the Middle East Book Award, and the Christopher Award, which recognizes individuals whose work makes a positive difference in the world. Demi has traveled extensively and studied art in Mexico, India, and China. She liveswith her husband in Carnation, Washington.