The Three-Year Tumble: Based on a Korean folktale

Bibliography

Auh, D., & Mohr, T. (2025). The Three-Year Tumble: Based on a Korean folktale. NorthSouth Books.

Plot Summary

Legend says that anyone who falls down the Misfortune Mountain has three years left to live. Grandfather has to travel over the mountain to get to the market, but one day he tumbles down it. Even though the doctor says that he is healthy, he feels as though the end is near. But when his granddaughter comes to visit and has a new outlook on his fate.

Critical Analysis

A strength of The Three-Year Tumble is how it uses a simple folktale to explore the powerful effects of fear and belief. The grandfather's decline is not caused by the fall itself but by his acceptance of the superstition, showing how mindset can influence a person's actions and well-being. Auh effectively challenges the idea of blindly accepting traditions by having the granddaughter question the belief and offer a different perspective. The illustrations strengthen this theme through their expressive style, bright colors, and textured details. Rather than simply matching the text, the artwork helps communicate the characters' emotions and highlights the contrast between fear and hope. Together, the text and illustrations create a meaningful story that encourages readers to think critically about their assumptions while appreciating the cultural significance of the Korean folktale. This book is perfect for all ages. When I read it to my 2, 4, 8, and 10-year-olds, they were all engaged the entire time, even though each connected with different parts of the story. This demonstrates how the book can meet readers at different developmental levels while still conveying a meaningful message. Together, the text and illustrations create a story that encourages readers to think critically about their assumptions while appreciating the cultural significance of the Korean folktale.

Review Excerpts

• A bright and lively addition to any folktale shelf. –Kirkus Reviews

• Inspired by the Korean folktale ‘Samnyeongogae, this playfully philosophical retelling highlights the power of perspective in facing life tumbles. – Booklist

Awards and Recognitions

• New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Book 2025

• A Smithsonian Magazine Best Children’s Book, 2025

• Center for the Study of Multicultural Children’s Books, Best Book of 2025

• ALA Notable Children’s Book, 2026

Connections

Give students other situations like the grandfather was in and see if they can solve it differently, like his granddaughter.