Seesaw Girl Paperback – Illustrated, September 14, 2009

It is a wonderful, understated tale about a young girl's coming of age in traditional, 17th century Korea. She's from a privileged family so our understanding of Korea is from her perspective, with glimpses of different parts of the culture. It's not an exciting adventure story; the setting is the main character, even more than the protagonist. It presents a very nice view of a distant culture for those of us in the twenty-first century. It reads well for older kids (upper elementary and above). If you are a Korean-American or have friends who are, this tale will shed insight for youngsters (and oldsters, too) about the background that cradled today's K-pop world.

Another book for a student. Friend was asking to sponsor a student from her class and give books to the student. I wanted her to learn a little about my culture history and this book was perfect

I love Linda Sue Park’s writing because she always take an event or time period when something horrible or something different from today’s culture occurs and makes it a great story. I gave this one four stars because I did not feel as if it was as fleshed out as some of her other works, but I admit that I would find that hard to do when I am just focused on a girl who must learn to be content within the same courtyard everyday of her life until she is married. I guess I just wished that there was a bigger change due to the main character’s actions. However, as she finally learns contentment, I am content too with the ending that provides such a satisfying metaphor as she see-saws with her sibling. For a moment she sees past her barrier and is able to tell a tale about what she saw that gives her contentment.

This is a wonderfully written book, well-researched and progressive in its message for young girls. It's short and well-priced. I wish there were more books like this.

This book is good for young readers. I would not suggest it though. Bad plot and story line really a disappointment

I bought this for my ten year old daughter who enjoyed it. Out of curiosity I picked it up as well and found the easy read to be thoroughly delightful and educational!

This was a delightful story! It conveyed historical & cultural information about South Korea, while providing an adventure & problem solving experience!

My daughter really liked this book but my only qualm (and it's a very minor thing and just a personal thing) is that I wish they would have used real Korean names. I also wish they could have certain parts written in Korean too but then again, I understand the author wanted to appeal to a wider audience. All in all, this is a very good children's book and I would recommend it!