Tree-ear, an orphan, is fascinated by the potters in his village. One day, he is watching the potter Min working at his craft. After Min walks away from his work, Tree-ear goes and picks up a box that Min made. Min's return startles Tree-ear, causing him to drop the box. In order to pay for the damage, Tree-ear agrees to work off the debt. Initially, he agreed to work nine days, but he continues to work for Min for months, without pay, in order to learn how to be a potter.
One day, Min and Tree-ear learn that a royal emissary is coming to the village to commission work. This is a much sought-after opportunity. On the day of the emissary’s visit, the best potters set up stalls showcasing their work. Min, a man very meticulous about his product, has the fewest items to show the emissary, but Min’s work, along with a few other potters, intrigues the visitor enough to warrant a second review on his return visit in the coming weeks.
Who will get the royal commission? What will become of Tree-ear after his work with Min is done? Winner of the Newbery Medal, this is a wonderful historical fiction story that takes place in medieval Korea, offering a fascinating peek into another culture.
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