Too Many Suns

E. Jane Philipps is head of the Biology Library at Queen’s University
in Kingston.

With a delicious shimmer of purple, an arrow-sharp twist of tangerine,
and the coolness of deep green jade, this vivid re-creation of the
ancient tale of Yi the Archer appeals to the ear, the eye, and the
imagination. Combining elements of Chinese mythology with her own
inventions, Lawson weaves a spellbinding narrative that dramatizes the
eternal struggle of humans and nature.

On the Farm of Ten Brothers, the youngest works his share, finding time
to play, to glory in the beauty around him, and to dream of one day
painting the sun. Beyond the Eastern Ocean, a family of 10 suns roosts
in a giant mulberry tree, each in turn (according to the way of things)
rising to light the world. One day, reluctantly joined by the smallest,
all the suns rise together, with terrifying results. Yi, the Immortal
Archer, ends the havoc by shooting down the suns one by one. A
courageous Youngest Brother intervenes to save the smallest sun, as Yi
takes final aim.

Martin Springett’s brilliant illustrations enhance the vigor and
poetry of the text, which lends itself to reading aloud. Color, shape,
and design evocative of the Orient add pleasing dimension to the story
and characters. The wanton and destructive power of the rebellious suns
resonates from the page. Recommended.