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The Three-Year Tumble

Based on a Korean Folktale

Translated by Tim Mohr
Published by NorthSouth Books
Distributed by Simon & Schuster
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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.

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

"Auh’s energetic and richly colored illustrations dovetail perfectly with this tale, capturing the many emotions of each character while engaging young readers. Through vibrant, expressive illustrations and a deceptively simple narrative, the story reveals how overcoming deeply ingrained beliefs can transform potential tragedy into triumph. 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

"Auh, a muralist, skillfully incorporates various media—acrylic, watercolor, oil pastel, felt-tip marker, and colored pencil—making each page pop with life. The rich landscapes are lavishly textured with strokes, lines, and blots of color, enhancing the upbeat tone of the text. A bright and lively addition to any folktale shelf."

Kirkus Reviews

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