I, DOKO

BIBILOGRAPHY:
Young, Ed. 2004. I, DOKO: THE TALE OF A BASKET. New York: Philomel Books. ISBN 0399236232

PLOT SUMMARY:
The story is told by a basket named Doko. Although a simple basket, he plays an integral role throughout the life of his master. From the holding the babies of the family to carrying the wife when she passes away to bringing the dowry when the son is married, Doko is always present for important moments. When Doko’s master becomes old and feeble, the son seeks to leave his father at the temple using Doko to transport him. Before the father leaves, the grandson requests that the father return Doko, so that he too will be able to take his father to the temple to leave when he is old. Shocked and full of tears, the son turns back and brings his father back to the cottage.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS:
Young captures life in his story as if it’s on a rolodex showing quick glimpses of events through the lives of the characters. The quote on the first page is provocative and leads nicely into the story. The book carries excellent rhythm for story telling with each page building the mood. At the end, I, DOKO sends a strong message about treating elders as one would like to be treated themselves.

The chalk and splatter paint illustrations are airy and scenic complementing the tale-like nature of the story. The pictures allow the reader to be better educated about Nepalese culture providing images of a “doko” as well as traditional clothing. The colors used emphasize the mood in the tale. Happier times have light green and blue backgrounds where tragic and tense times feature dark red and blue.

I loved how Young showcased Doko as little and simple yet one of the heroes. As the humble narrator, the audience has grown fond of the Doko throughout the story. Therefore, when it is Doko who plays a pivotal role in saving his master, the reader is surprised yet most satisfied.

AWARDS WON AND REVIEW EXCERPTS:
Starred review in BOOKLIST: “As increasing numbers of families anticipate in-home care for elderly relatives, parents will want to share this story's poignant message with their children. The book may also inspire students' recastings of familiar tales from unusual points of view.”
SCHOOL LIBRARY JOURNAL review: “The simple text offers a splendid backdrop for the beautiful illustrations. Done in gouache, pastel, and collage, the pictures have graceful lines, subtle textures, and magnificent colors. With gold endpapers and gold edgings around each page, there's a timeless quality suited to the story. Lovely.”

CONNECTIONS:
* Lead a discussion using sing the quote on the first page “What one wishes not upon oneself, one burdens not upon another” –Kung Fu Tze, Sixth Century, B.C. Ask the students what their interpretation of the quote is.
* Share other stories illustrated by Ed Young and have the children find some common themes of Asian culture
Reibstein, Marke. WABI SABI. ISBN 0316118257
Adams, Tracey. THE LOST HORSE: A CHINESE FOLKTALE. ISBN
015205023
* Invite children to create stories using the perspective of their own belongings such as a backpack or a shoe.