Illustrated by Jieting Chen
5 stars
A stunning fictionalized depiction of the story of Yuan, Duke Ling of Wei, and Mi Zi Xia. This gorgeous story showcases their love in China in 500 B.C.E. Yuan is told he must strive to be perfect in his rule. But since nothing is perfect, how can he possible understand perfection? To help him, Zi Xia sets out to find something perfect for Yuan and in the processes, discovers something even more powerful than perfection.
A truly beautiful story with themes of love, perfection, and dedication.
The artwork is dreamlike and beautiful. It was so sweet to watch Yuan and Zi Xia grow up together and grow closer.
At the back is a short Author’s Note about the expression “yutao zhipi” (“love of the half-eaten peach”), which was used to describe two men in love based on Yuan and Zi Xia’s story.
An absolutely gorgeous book with stunning art and a heartwarming story. A wonderful read.