Pioggia di primavera
(Spring rain) Book not yet available in English
Summary:
After escaping the arson of the Tian Shan monastery, the priestess warrior Shu Mei finds refuge among the nuns of a small community. Here, her path will cross with that of the young Chun Yu, the niece of a businessman persecuted by Wong, who is the spoiled son of the powerful family that reigns over the village.
Edited by: Centro MeTRa - Università di Bologna (Italy)
Comment:
This is the fourth title of the highly readable graphic novel series by Sinnos publishing house. The book, by Paolina Baruchello and with black and white illustrations by Andrea Rivola, combines the themes of gender equality, emancipation and sport by presenting the encounter of two women, the warrior nun Shu Mei, who fled the attack on her monastery, and Chun Yu, a young girl who does not intend to accept the brutal marriage proposal by Wong, son of the local boss. Led by the warrior nun, the girl learns the basics of Kung-fu and challenges Wong in combat. Her own freedom is at stake, and it will be painstakingly conquered by the girl. Success cannot be achieved by physical strength alone; agility, speed and shrewdness can be equally important. In fact, Chun Yu turns the lightness of her weight into an advantage: it is grace that becomes a force capable of defeating the opponent even in his honour. The story is an allegory about women’s inner and outer strength, but it is also a comic book with a message of empowerment against abuse and injustice for all.