Blog 17: Laurence Yep

Book Selection: "The Imp That Ate My Homework"
Author: Laurence Yep
Illustrator: Benrei Huang


(1) Laurence Yep brings a multicultural aspect to the children's literature world. Although Yep was born in California, his father was born in China. Yep has always been interested in the Chinese culture and typically adds this heritage into his writing. In Yep's "The Imp That Ate My Homework", we are introduced to Jim and his family. Jim's mother works in a factory sewing clothing and his father works in a butcher shop. When Jim is assigned to write about one of his grandparents, he is sad to realize that the only one he can write about is Grandpop, the meanest man in all of Chinatown. When as imp shows up and eats his homework, Jim begins to have one of the worst days of his life. When his teachers request conferences with his parents, Jim goes to seek understanding from his mom. Unfortunately, Jim only manages to get his parents in trouble when he visits them and is sent to speak with his grandfather. What Jim does not anticipate is that his grandfather believes him about the imp and works with him to rid their family from the imp's mischief.


(2) This book would definitely be targeted for a younger audience. The depth and detail that Yep goes into is minimal. This being said, I am fairly certain that this is uncharacteristic of Yep's usual work. As I did research on Laurence Yep, I've noticed that most of his titles take on a more serious tone and are likely targeted for young adults.

(3) I did learn a bit about Chinese culture when reading this book. I had no idea that imps were to the Chinese historically like ghosts or goblins are to Americans. It was also interesting to read the history of Chung Kuei, a demon chaser from China. Laurence Yep has written many books since he began in 1968. Some of his works are listed below.

"Dragon's Gate"
"Dragonwings"
"Ribbons"
"Child of the Owl"
"Hiroshima"
"Dream Soul"
"The Magic Paintbrush"
"Shadow Lord"
"Thief of Hearts"
"Tree of Dreams"
"Case of the Goblin Pearls"
"Sea Glass"

Images courtesy of http://images.google.com.