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A 2021 Newbery Honor Book
A boy on the run. A girl determined to find him. A compelling fantasy looks at issues of privilege, protest, and justice. All light in Chattana is created by one man — the Governor, who appeared after the Great Fire to bring peace and order to the city. For Pong, who was born in Namwon Prison, the magical lights represent freedom, and he dreams of the day he will be able to walk among them. But when Pong escapes from prison, he realizes that the world outside is no fairer than the one behind bars. The wealthy dine and dance under bright orb light, while the poor toil away in darkness. Worst of all, Pong’s prison tattoo marks him as a fugitive who can never be truly free. Nok, the prison warden’s perfect daughter, is bent on tracking Pong down and restoring her family’s good name. But as Nok hunts Pong through the alleys and canals of Chattana, she uncovers secrets that make her question the truths she has always held dear. Set in a Thai-inspired fantasy world, Christina Soontornvat’s twist on Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables is a dazzling, fast-paced adventure that explores the difference between law and justice — and asks whether one child can shine a light in the dark. |
Activity 1:
What are the special abilities (small and big, from silent stepping to spire fighting) that end up helping Pong, Nok, and Somkit to fight injustice? Make a list. Then, reflect on why the author gave these character these particular characteristics and how each character’s characteristics work together in the end.
Activity 2:
Meditation was something that the characters did in this story to help them through rough times. Collect 4 pebbles. Go to this YouTube video and try the Four Pebbles Meditation, a breathing exercise that can help with anxiety.
What are the special abilities (small and big, from silent stepping to spire fighting) that end up helping Pong, Nok, and Somkit to fight injustice? Make a list. Then, reflect on why the author gave these character these particular characteristics and how each character’s characteristics work together in the end.
Activity 2:
Meditation was something that the characters did in this story to help them through rough times. Collect 4 pebbles. Go to this YouTube video and try the Four Pebbles Meditation, a breathing exercise that can help with anxiety.
Activity 3:
Personal Essay : What are the special abilities (big and small) that you have? How might these abilities help you to work for fairness in the world? Write an essay or create a poster on your special abilities and how they can help you contribute to justice. Use specific examples from your own experience.