The Dragon Prince: A Chinese Beauty & the Beast Tale by Laurence Yep is a captivating retelling of the classic Beauty and the Beast story, set in ancient China. This beautiful children’s book is a wonderful blend of Chinese culture, folklore, and fantasy that will enchant readers of all ages.

The story follows the young and courageous heroine, Jia Li, who bravely ventures into the misty mountains to rescue her father from a fearsome dragon. Little does she know that the dragon is actually a prince who has been cursed by an evil sorceress. As Jia Li spends time with the dragon prince, she begins to see past his fearsome exterior and discovers the kind heart that lies within.

Laurence Yep’s masterful storytelling weaves together elements of Chinese mythology and traditional fairy tales to create a rich and immersive world that will transport readers to a magical realm. The lush descriptions of the landscapes and the intricate details of the characters’ costumes and customs bring the story to life in vivid detail.

The Dragon Prince is a heartwarming tale of love, redemption, and the transformative power of compassion. Through Jia Li’s kindness and understanding, the dragon prince is able to break free from the curse that has held him captive for so long. It is a story that teaches valuable lessons about empathy, forgiveness, and the importance of looking beyond appearances to see the true beauty within.

The illustrations by Kam Mak are stunning and complement the text beautifully, adding another layer of depth and emotion to the story. The detailed artwork captures the essence of Chinese art and brings the world of the Dragon Prince to vibrant life.

Overall, The Dragon Prince: A Chinese Beauty & the Beast Tale is a must-read for anyone who enjoys fairy tales, folklore, and stories of courage and redemption. Laurence Yep has crafted a timeless and enchanting retelling of a classic tale that will captivate readers and leave them spellbound until the very last page. This book is a true gem that belongs on every child’s bookshelf.