TOKKI'S TRICKS

Tokki and Jara match wits in this mischievous retelling of an ancient Korean tale.

Whether stealing Farmer Kim’s strawberries or outrunning hungry predators, carefree Tokki (Korean for rabbit/hare) always escapes. Deep in the sea, meticulous Jara (softshell turtle) is all about order and routine—until his calm existence is disrupted by the news that the Sea King is sick. The only cure? Eating Tokki’s liver. “I can navigate well on land,” says Jara. “I should go for the adventu—I mean, for our Sea King!” When he finds Tokki, Jara easily coaxes him into the sea with flattery and promises of treasures. Realizing he’s been trapped down under, Tokki plans his escape (and also takes home plenty of gold and jewels). Korean American author/illustrator Kim presents a more equitable version of the classic story, recognizing Tokki’s shrewdness but also rewarding Jara’s loyalty and sense of adventure. Kim’s digitally collaged mixed-media illustrations create profusely colorful pages. She deftly incorporates humor, from Jara’s Sea King tchotchkes to Tokki’s culinarily trendy scatological solution. Both rivals are notably bookish—Tokki’s bookshelf includes The Trickster and The Tale of Two Tricksters; among Jara’s aspirational escapist tomes is Travelogue of Kim Keum Won, a Joseon Dynasty classic. Kim’s author’s note discusses the story’s origins.

Memorably reclaims a timeless tale highlighting clever resourcefulness.