The Pearl in the Grass
Imagine you're so poor
you have to scrape a living
by selling wild grass.
When the rains don't come
the ground dries up
and nothing can grow.
You go hungry, and you know eventually you'll starve.
So if you found a patch of fast growing grass in the middle of the desert you'd think your problems were over, wouldn't you?
That's what Sheng thought.
But when his mum suggested he dig up the grass to plant in their garden his problems had only begun.....
Everyone who has heard this story LOVES it!
This is one of John's most popular stories.
He's told it to thousands of enraptured children in schools and libraries all over the country and now - by huge popular demand - it's available in print.
It's an old story from China about loyalty, fear and courage. It will make you laugh and might make you cry (especially mums - sorry!). It's also about huge wealth, pots of gold, greedy robbers, nosey villagers and a bit of a (rather magical) surprise.
If you're lucky enough to have heard John tell this story you'll know what a treat you're in for.
If you're not, find out what you've been missing!
ISBN 9780955212932 £6.99
and those who've read it love it just as much!
Amazon have a programme called The Vine, in which books are sent in advance of publication to Amazon's most trusted reviewers.
The Pearl in the Grass was chosen for The Vine and so even before publication the bookreceived excellent reviews on Amazon -
see the reviews yourself and get it for only £6.29 instead of the RRP of £6.99.
The School Librarian Magazine said:
'John Harris's skill as a professional storyteller is evident in his retelling of this Chinese folk tale.... gossiping neighbours, wicked robbers and a terrifying dragon all lead to a hugely satisfying end.'
Carousel, the guide to Children's Books said:
"A distinctive front cover invites young readers into this delightful folktale which provokes both smiles and sighs.... the imaginative, stylish illustrations heighten the speed and suspense of the well-paced text. "