Library of Legends, The

Set in World War II China, university scholarship student Lian is one of the students asked to rescue the Library of Legends, which contains the stories and myths of Chinese culture, when the university is closed. During this dangerous journey Lian develops feelings for Shao, a wealthy student who attends the university with his servant Star, but when Lian must go in search of her mother they accompany her and Lian learns that Star is really a spirit that loves and protects Shao. This well-written novel, suitable as a whole class, lit circle, or independent novel, addresses themes of violence, war, socio-economic inequality, love, and religion and belief.