Lady Hahn and her Seven Friends

Heo, Y. (2012). Lady Hahn and Her Seven Friends. Henry Holt and Company (BYR).

ISBN: 978-0805041279

Plot Summary:

Lady Hahn is a seamstress, and her seven friends are the tools she uses to sew―Mrs. Ruler, Newlywed Scissors, Young Bride Needle, Young Bride Red Thread, Old Lady Thimble, Young Lady Flatiron, and Little Miss Iron. When Lady Hahn's friends start boasting about how important they are, Lady Hahn turns her back on them. But it's not long before she realizes how much she needs her friends as every one of them contributes in an important, special way.

-Amazon

Analysis:

The Author’s Note in this book explains that the story of Lady Hahn and her Seven Friends originated from a late 1800’s Korean classical essay, titled “Kyujung Chilwoo Jangrongi.” The illustrations show a woman in traditional Korean fashion sewing in her room. Each of her tools has a nickname: Mrs. Ruler, Newlywed Scissors, Young Bride Needle, Young Bride Red Thread, Old Lady Thimble, Young Lady Flatiron, and Little Miss Iron. The depictions in the book are colorfully drawn with the sewing theme on every page. The characters have whimsical expressions that make them come to life. The moral of the story is that by working together each person contributes a meaningful part that cannot be accomplished working alone. Yumi Heo has written and illustrated a lovely modern rendition of a traditional story.

Book Reviews:

“A Korean story from the late 19th century is the basis for this irresistible teaching tale about cooperation, respect for tools and sewing.” 

—Kirkus Reviews

“Heo's clear oil and pencil art is appealing, with skillful use of color to balance the compositions and engage viewers.” 

—School Library Journal

“Blending collage, pencil and oil paint, Heo creates an animated landscape with strong visual and auditory impact. . . . Heo mixes in her own refreshing brand of eccentricity and serves up artwork that is festive and fun.”

 ―Publishers Weekly

Connections:

This is a fun story about recognizing that everyone has value. It’s a fun illustration about working together.

Awards:

None

This review was created as an assignment for SHSU LSSL 5361.