The Library of Legends by Janie Chang

                                                            

 Title: The Library of Legends

Author: Janie Chang

Genre: Historical fiction, Legend, Magical Realism


Synopsis: 1937, China is at war with Japan and the students and faculty at Minghua University must evacuate. In addition to saving the lives of people of those at the university, they carry with them important and historical volumes from the school's library. Lian, a second-year student with a complicated family history, and the students in her group are tasked with each carrying a book from the Library of Legends. This the only surviving portion of an ancient encyclopedia and the stories encompass the legends of Chinese Gods and immortals. In their walk to travel thousands of miles, Lian becomes close with a fourth-year student, Shaoming, who comes from a wealthy family, and his servant, Sparrow. Lian, Shao, and Sparrow travel together to save the Library of Legends and to reunite with their families, encountering danger and mystical occurrences along the way.

My Thoughts

First of all, how beautiful is the cover of this book? And you can totally judge THIS book by its cover, that is for sure.

I haven't had this much fun reading a war novel in a long time. The story does detail the difficulties, danger, and losses of those living in the affected areas of China and the refugee crisis as people evacuated their cities, but it is done so well. 

Chang brings the subjects of the Library of Legends to life through the eyes of those people with the ability and gift to see them. The patrons of the cities are leaving as they are recalled from Earth, leaving the people who pray to them unprotected. It is a beautiful metaphor for the abandonment felt by those in times of war. For Lian to become part of the story she carries, The Prince and the Willow Star, is a stroke of genius. Bringing the mystical to the novel helps to lighten a historically inspired story about a time of tragedy and loss.

This is also a story of resilience, hope, and perseverance. Carrying the Library of Legends gave the students something to focus on other than their own safety and the long and difficult journey they had to make, mostly on foot, across China. Chang shows how many privileged students evolved through this journey and how those who did not know one another before evacuation became bonded by their experience.

This novel encompasses so much I had to categorize it in several genres; there is a love story, war, mystery, history, and some fantasy aspects that make this a book that many people would enjoy reading. I was so very sad when I came to the last page, but look forward to reading more from this author! 

Comment below if you have read this book or have suggestions for others like it!

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