Awards & Accolades
New Asian Writing Interview

Secrets of the Terra-Cotta Soldier is written by Ying Chang Compestine who grew up in China and now lives in Lafayette, California. She is a popular author of children’s books, cookbooks, and novels. Ying’s son, Vinson Compestine, is a National Merit Scholar currently studying at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business.
Read an interview from authors Ying Compestine and Vinson Compestine on their mother-and-son collaboration!
Read an interview from authors Ying Compestine and Vinson Compestine on their mother-and-son collaboration!
Praise for Terra-Cotta Soldier
“An excellent adventure with many facts about ancient China” — The Morning Call “Historical photos and Indiana Jones–style adventure enrich this tale of an unusual meeting between the Qin Dynasty and the 20th century.” — Kirkus Reviews “Despite the hardships, both courageous characters work to uphold their respective duties: Shi to protect the tomb and Ming to protect the cultural legacy of China’s people. With archival art, recipes, and endnotes, this title is sure to be a hit in the classroom.” — Booklist “...history is skillfully woven into the action. The statue's backstory and the secret traps of the tomb provide ample adventure.” — School Library Journal “…a wonderful way to introduce readers to Chinese history, both near recent and ancient.” — Association of Children’s Librarians |