Reading Response: Mystery and Adventure
The Last Mapmaker Soontornvat, C. The Last Mapmaker. Candlewick Press, 2022. 368 pages. Tr. $17.99, ISBN 9781536204957 This Thai influenced fantasy is based in the fictional kingdom of Mangkon. In this novel our protagonist, Sai is a twelve year old girl who is an apprentice who lies about her social background in order to better her circumstances. The plot holds the reader's attention. We see Sai have to overcome various obstacles in order to succeed in her adventure. From dealing with an alcoholic father, losing her life savings, escaping being thrown overboard a ship, floating on a crate and even finding a dragon, the nonstop action keeps the plot propelling forward! As the story progresses Sai's character evolves as well. As a mapmaker in training, she was excited to explore and find the Sutherlands that was rumored to have dragons. In the beginning she wants to prove herself and not let her past define her. She learns that exploration has consequences. She learns t...
