This is a beautiful book and a beautiful story! The quiltmaker was an older woman who lived in the mountains above a kingdom, and her quilts were legendary. No matter who asked, or how often, or what they offered, the woman never sold one of her quilts. She would only give them away to people in need.
At the same time there was a greedy king who hoarded and commanded gifts from all of his subjects, but was never satisfied - and never happy. The king was certain that "out there" was the one beautiful gift that would finally bring him happiness. The king heard of the quiltmaker and demanded one of her quilts, but she refused. He tried threats and coercion (stunts that reminded me of Daniel in the lion's den!), but nothing worked. Finally the woman told him that she would give him a quilt if he gave away all of his beautiful trinkets and treasures.
You can guess what happened, but I urge you to read the whole story. It is well worth the time. I thought the illustrations were colorful and eye catching. They are pretty "busy," too, so you'll want to take your time exploring them. I think my favorite part is the transformation that happens in the kingdom because of the transformation of the king.
Apparently there is also a prequel, called The Quiltmaker's Journey.
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Sounds like a lovely story (and for teaching lessons). I love the idea behind: 'the woman never sold one of her quilts. She would only give them away to people in need.'
ReplyDeleteJust today a post at my blog has gone live with several sewing/quilt related picture books, so I'll add a link to this review there!
ReplyDeleteGreat, Zoe - Thanks! I'll have to check that out.
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