Lay Koon’s Artistic Tale of the Celestial Dragon in “Xin & The Blue Dragon of Spring”

I recently had the pleasure of immersing myself in the magical world crafted by the talented Lim Lay Koon in her picture book, “Xin & The Blue Dragon of Spring.”

“Xin & The Blue Dragon of Spring” is an enchanting picture book that takes readers on a captivating journey through a magical world filled with wonder and bravery. The story revolves around a blue dragon that slumbers, causing the land to grow colder as the winter stars await its awakening. Only one daring girl, Xin, armed with a sacred box, takes on the quest to rouse the dragon from its deep sleep.

As Xin embarks on her courageous expedition, she traverses diverse landscapes—crossing a river, navigating a canyon, and ascending a mountain. The vivid descriptions and beautifully illustrated scenes immerse readers in Xin’s adventurous odyssey. The anticipation builds as Xin reaches a mysterious deep cave where the mighty Blue Dragon of Spring lies dormant.

Lim Lay Koon skillfully crafts Xin as a determined and fearless protagonist. The character’s journey not only highlights her courage but also emphasizes the power of empathy and the willingness to take risks for the greater good.

One aspect that particularly caught my attention was the clever typesetting. As things from the sacred box grow bigger in the story, so does the text. This ingenious detail not only reflects the narrative arc but also engages readers in a subtle and immersive way.

What struck me immediately was Lim Lay Koon’s artistic evolution over the years. Having known her work for quite some time, witnessing the intricate details and vibrant hues in the illustrations of the blue dragon left me amazed. Her use of gouache adds a unique quality to the visuals, creating a feast for the eyes.

The spread compositions in the book are nothing short of marvellous. Each page tells a story, drawing readers deeper into the unfolding adventure. Lim Lay Koon’s skilful play with space and colour adds more richness to the narrative. Lim Lay Koon’s storytelling prowess and artistic finesse create a world that lingers in the imagination long after the last page is turned.

It’s worth noting that Lay Koon’s remarkable talent was rightfully recognized when she clinched the grand prize at the YGIA Awards last year. This prestigious acknowledgement only adds to the allure of her work, solidifying her as a prominent force in the world of storytelling through art.

In a way, it’s as if Lay Koon herself is the dragon awakening from slumber, breathing life into the pages of “Xin & The Blue Dragon of Spring.”

Xin and the Blue Dragon of Spring
Author/Illustrator: Lim Lay Koon
Publisher: Oyez!Books
ISBN 978-967-2384-52-6
Format: Hardcover
Size: 297 x 210mm
Pages: 32