JIN JIN AND RAIN WIZARD
by Grace Chang & illustrated by Chong Chang
The expression “waste not, want not” receives an earnest explication in Jin Jin’s second outing (Jin Jin the Dragon, 2007). When the little dragon finds himself unable to spout water, he travels through a magical pagoda to Ancient Times. After discovering that the people then are unfamiliar with rice and, moreover, that they are suffering from a drought, he journeys to the Rain Wizard, who teaches him that his condition stems from throwing away his uneaten rice. Chang’s Uncle Wiggily–esque watercolors reveal the dragon’s charming personality. Jin Jin’s solid-gold scales and bright blue eyes exude a vibrant glow as he extends himself across each uncluttered spread, though the humans are represented in a much less lively fashion. Unnecessary details occasionally cause the story to stumble, and the cheery tone can feel forced: “This time he knew he would lick his rice bowl clean, polishing it to reflect his happy dragon face.” Jin Jin’s fans will be best served by this heartfelt effort. (author’s notes) (Picture book. 5-8)