Books

“Lin (When the Mountain Meets the Moon) combines ancient and contemporary Chinese lore in this visually stunning tale about a girl, a lion cub, and a worm who must retrieve a lost sacred object to reconnect the mortal and spirit worlds. Jin is a Gongshi, a Stone Lion guardian charged with watching over humans and protecting the Sacred Sphere, which powers the gate between realms. Bored of these duties, Jin prefers to perfect his athletic abilities instead. But when a rogue kick knocks the Sacred Sphere through the portal, he gives chase, trapping himself in the human world. Stuck in diminutive lion cub form, Jin allies with mortal tween Lulu, who can hear a mysterious voice, and a mustachioed worm claiming to be a dragon. Together, they must return the sphere to the gate. Unknown to them, however, they’re up against a shadowy specter’s own agenda. Vibrantly colorful full-page gouache pieces depict ethereal happenings, and foreshadowing chapter openers feature key objects or places. Skillfully woven adventure injects excitement into the trio’s expansive journey, during which they learn lessons on love, duty, growing up, and the meaning of home.”
—Publishers’ Weekly ★ STARRED REVIEW ★

“I just this moment finished the book and I love it! Love it! I raced through it — the story just whirled me along.”—Jeanne Birdsall, author of the Penderwicks

“I adore all of Grace’s books; she is a magical storyteller who always writes beautifully real, lovable characters, whether they’re humans, stone spirits, lion cubs, or dragons. The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon is a thoughtfully woven wonder about mistakes and choices and family – including a terrific, very surprising dragon story! – that readers of all ages will love!” —Tui Sutherland, author of Wings of Fire

“Magical storytelling at its best! Grace, Lin’s characters and modern day setting bring the reader along for an exciting ride.” —Becky Steenburg, Youth Services Librarian

“High on my list of read-aloud magic is sharing a story that delights both the reader and the listener, where the engagement of one feeds on the other to create something more. The Gate, the Girl, and the Dragon was just such a book for my nine-year-old and me. Grace Lin masterfully builds momentum as she weaves the story’s threads together in the most satisfying way. I confess that much as I enjoy the shared reading experience, I still found myself unable to stop turning the pages after my daughter fell asleep on the second to last night. We’ll just keep that between us. ” —Elaine Almon, mother of readers

“It’s been awhile since we’ve had new middle grade fiction from Grace Lin, and it was worth the wait! This blend of fanciful invented legend and original story has something for every reader: mystery, action, emotion…and dragons! I can’t wait to read it again in published form with Lin’s jewel-like illustrations.” — Lori Faust, Children’s Librarian

“The Gate, The Girl, and The Dragon is like a mug of hot tea on a snowy day. It warms your soul and sparks the imagination. The characters are memorable and Grace Lin’s lyrical storytelling and gorgeous illustrations are sure to make this an instant beloved classic for families and classrooms everywhere.” —Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor podcast host, speaker, STEAM educator

“Grace Lin’s new novel, The Gate, The Girl, and the Dragon mixes the modern and mythical together in a story that leaves a lasting impression on the reader. The author’s descriptive words paint a picture in your mind full of color and imagery. Don’t miss another great read from Grace Lin!” —Teresa Walker, parent and educator