By Linda Sue Park
Park takes readers to twelfth-century Korea to tell a timeless story of dedication to one's dreams and art in A Single Shard. Tree-ear, an orphan, becomes fascinated with a nearby community of potters. Drawn by their exquisite craftsmanship, the adolescent boy begins to assist the master potter Min. Tree-ear's determination and bravery in pursuing his dream of becoming a potter take readers on a literary journey that demonstrates how courage, honor, and perseverance can overcome great odds and bring great happiness.