The Master Puppeteer

“The Master Puppeteer” is a historical novel for children by the American author Katherine Paterson first published in 1975. It has won the 1977 U.S.A National Book Award in category Children’s Literature. 

The book is set in Osaka, Japan, during a period of famine in the 18th century. It tells the story of a young boy named Jiro takes a job at a theatre run by the puppeteer Yoshida, who proves to be a demanding employer. However, Jiro discovers there is a connection between the theatre and a local thief who has been stealing rice from the municipal authorities and merchants and giving it away to the starving poor.

I really liked and enjoy this book because it included very important values such as friendship and loyal. It always kept me curious in mystery while reading it. Also the book is at once a fascinating introduction to the complex artistry of the Japanese puppet theatre, a gripping novel.