Grace Lin's Starry River of the Sky enchants with its rich folklore and vibrant illustrations, captivating readers through engaging storytelling and cultural depth. The narrative's interwoven tales and mythology offer imaginative allure, though some found the pacing uneven. Overall, it's a beautifully crafted, thought-provoking journey ideal for middle-grade audiences.

Readers who enjoy Starry River of the Sky by Grace Lin are typically middle-grade students who appreciate richly woven folklore and mythological tales. Fans of Where the Mountain Meets the Moon or Kate DiCamillo's The Tale of Despereaux will find this book enchanting, thanks to its vibrant storytelling and cultural depth.

Starry River of the Sky by Grace Lin follows Rendi, a boy who runs away from his wealthy family and finds himself in a small, troubled village where he takes the place of the innkeeper’s missing son. As he meets various characters, including the mysterious Madam Chang, and listens to stories rooted in Chinese folklore, Rendi embarks on an emotional journey, learning lessons about anger, forgiveness, and the importance of family.

Fantastical / Emotional / Mysterious / Inspirational / Heartwarming

- Starry River of the Sky by Grace Lin is a companion novel to her earlier Newbery Honor book, Where the Mountain Meets the Moon.
- The novel is inspired by Chinese folklore and mythology, which Grace Lin expertly weaves into the narrative to enrich the cultural tapestry of the story.
- Grace Lin, renowned for her richly illustrated children's books, has designed and created the intricate artwork found throughout Starry River of the Sky.

**Rendi**  
A young boy described as having a tough demeanor, who leaves home due to familial conflicts and embarks on a journey in search of self-discovery and possibly reconciliation.  
  
**Madam Chang**  
An enigmatic and gracefully ethereal woman who tells intertwining stories with roots in mythology and folk tales, offering wisdom to those around her.  
  
**Peiyi**  
A young and brave innkeeper’s daughter who grapples with feelings of abandonment, forming a crucial friendship with Rendi.  
  
**Mr. Shan**  
A wise and ancient spirit whose presence is integral to the story's connection to nature, overcoming past grievances to restore balance.  
  
**Rendi’s Father**  
A powerful magistrate whose stern and harsh nature drives Rendi to leave home, prompting his son’s journey.  
  
**Peiyi’s Father**  
A steadfast innkeeper embroiled in a long-standing family feud, illustrating the impact of grudges on community relationships and personal growth.

Grace Lin

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

Guide

Study Guide

Before You Read

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Overview

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Starry River of the Sky Summary and Study Guide

Background

Starry River of the Sky Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-9

Starry River of the Sky Chapters 1-9 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 10-18

Starry River of the Sky Chapters 10-18 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 19-27

Starry River of the Sky Chapters 19-27 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 28-36

Starry River of the Sky Chapters 28-36 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 37-45

Starry River of the Sky Chapters 37-45 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Starry River of the Sky Character Analysis

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Themes

Starry River of the Sky Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Starry River of the Sky Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Starry River of the Sky Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Starry River of the Sky Essay Topics

Starry River of the Sky

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Who Should Read Starry River of the Sky?

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