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Table of Contents
About The Book
Based on the traditional Korean folktale “Samnyeongogae” (“Three-Year Mountain Pass"), this picture book parable by Korean-German artist Dayeon Auh features a fateful mountain, a superstitious grandfather, and a granddaughter with a clever perspective on life.
Legend says that anyone who falls down Misfortune Mountain has three years left to live. Grandfather must travel over the treacherous mountain to get to the market, but one day catastrophe happens and he tumbles down! The doctor says he is perfectly healthy, but Grandfather feels the end is near . . . until his granddaughter comes to visit and makes a different calculation about his fate.
From then on, the legend of the mountain takes on a new meaning and everyone finds themselves eager to tumble down it. A fable that demonstrates how a change in one’s mindset can make a positive impact.
Legend says that anyone who falls down Misfortune Mountain has three years left to live. Grandfather must travel over the treacherous mountain to get to the market, but one day catastrophe happens and he tumbles down! The doctor says he is perfectly healthy, but Grandfather feels the end is near . . . until his granddaughter comes to visit and makes a different calculation about his fate.
From then on, the legend of the mountain takes on a new meaning and everyone finds themselves eager to tumble down it. A fable that demonstrates how a change in one’s mindset can make a positive impact.
About The Author
Dayeon Auh was born in Seoul, South Korea, and studied at Burg Giebichenstein University of Art and Design in Halle, Germany, as well as the University of the Arts in Berlin. She has traveled extensively, including places such as Sri Lanka, India, and Italy, and is often commissioned by hostels along the way to create large murals. She hopes her works will live on, spread joy and inspiration, and highlight the small moments that make life meaningful. She lives and works in Berlin and Leipzig.
Product Details
- Publisher: NorthSouth Books (March 25, 2025)
- Length: 40 pages
- ISBN13: 9780735845749
- Ages: 4 - 8
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Raves and Reviews
"Dayeon Auh’s joyfully unique paintings bring warmth and color to every page of this Korean folktale retelling, and the clever conclusion will leave young readers giggling."
– Caroline Carlson, Literary Hub
"Auh’s energetic and richly colored illustrations dovetail perfectly with this tale, capturing the many emotions of each character while engaging young readers... The simple and easy to follow plot helps young readers explore themes of resilience and positive mindset with humor and grace."
– Youth Services Book Review, Starred Review
"Inspired by the Korean folktale 'Samnyeongogae,' this playfully philosophical retelling highlights the power of perspective in facing life’s tumbles."
– Booklist
"A bright and lively addition to any folktale shelf."
– Kirkus Reviews
"Auh’s debut picture book, featuring traditional mixed media spreads, offers an exuberant and whimsical reading experience."
– The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
"Misfortune is transformed into good luck in this picture book… As an authentic cultural tale, this book will be an excellent diverse addition to any collection. It also conveys a meaningful lesson about taking charge of your own luck."
– Children's Literature
Resources and Downloads
High Resolution Images
- Book Cover Image (jpg): The Three-Year Tumble Hardcover 9780735845749
- Author Photo (jpg): Dayeon Auh (0.1 MB)
Any use of an author photo must include its respective photo credit
