In this first of the Everlasting Tales series, Moore and Li retell the story of the moon goddess Chang'e and her legendary romance with a skilled archer, Hou Yi. Both human, the married couple are deeply in love, and they share that love with their village and beyond, spreading compassion and goodwill. When 10 blazing suns appear in the sky one day, threatening to destroy Earth, the two set off to protect the land and are rewarded for their bravery with an elixir of immortality—enough for only one—that disrupts their bond with a trusted ally. Li's ethereal textured illustrations, made using both analog and digital tools, portray an idyllic scene turning disastrous under blazing suns. Alongside lush landscapes and portraits, this modern rendition of the classic tale refreshingly centers, per an author's note, on love's "strong power, wide reach, and ability to transcend distance, physical being, and even time." Back matter includes a condensed version in Mandarin. Ages 4–8. (Sept.)

Gr 2–4—A much-loved Chinese folktale gets an update in this lovely picture book. Beautiful Chang'e and her loving husband, Hou Yi the great archer, lead an idyllic life. When nine ominous suns appear in the sky threatening famine and hardship, Hou Yi shoots them down. The grateful Empress of Heaven offers Hou Yi a vial of immortality but there is only enough for one. Neither Chang'e nor Hou Yi wish to be separated from the other, but when his jealous apprentice tries to steal the potion, Chang'e drinks it. She floats away to the moon, along with her pet rabbit, eternally separated from Hou Yi, but "watching over him and all those she loved." Lush illustrations underscore the romantic themes of their story. An afterword offers more information on the tale's widespread appeal and variations, making this a good choice for cross-cultural studies. For additional context, pair with: Grace Lin's Thanking the Moon. A Mandarin translation is included. VERDICT With its focus on Chang'e and Hou Yi's noble sacrifice and enduring love, detailed in exquisite illustrations, this tale has read-aloud potential and should find a home in public and school library collections.—Marilyn Taniguchi