I, Doko: The Tale of a Basket

Bibliography:
Young, Ed. 2004. I, Doko: The Tale of a Basket. Ill. by Ed Young. Philomel Books. ISBN 0-399-23625-2

Plot Summary:
This book gives insight into the Napalese culture as it is narrated from the point of view of a basket-a prized possession used for many fundamentals in this culture. The basket sees a family give birth, watch the family grow and also experience family members' death, trials and tribulations. In the end, the father of the fa mily is a disabled old man and his son proposes to leave him at the temple so the priests will have to take care of him but the grandson steps in with a inquiry that makes the father questions the morals behind his decision. It's an inspirational story that reflects the strong bond between and boy and his grandfather. In the end, this relationship transformed the village around them-changing it to appreciate the elderly and live in harmony together providing the true happy ending that many folktales have in common. This idea ties back into the quote that opens the beginning of the book, "What one wishes not upon oneself, one burdens not upon another."

Critical Analysis:
The writing within this book greatly reflects the time-period and culture with names such as "Yeh-Yeh", "Wangal" and "Doko". The events told within the story: gathering crops, carrying a baby in the basket on their backs, taking the elderly to the temple when it is time to pass on, etcetera, really emphasize the Nepalese culture. The text is a bit smaller than picture book size, and there are usually 1-2 paragraphs per page. This is not a simple book to comprehend immediately unless one is familiar with the Nepalese cultures and traditions.

The illustrations are done in mostly pastels, with soft, rounded lines and beautiful gold trimming around each page. The textures of the pictures are simple and very one-dimensional. They perfectly fit the content of the book as they seem very true to the culture.

Review Excerpts:
Booklist: Starred Review "...parents will want to share this story's poignant message with their children".

Connections:
*This story can be used as a coping strategy for children who have loved and lost someone dear to them.
*This book can also be used to help children talk about traditions in their own family.
*This story can help discuss events such as an elderly family member moving in with them to be taken care of or their family memeber receiving in-home care by another.
*This book can deliever and discuss an important message of the golden rule, "do unto others and you would have them do unto you."