A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park

Set in 12th-century Korea, the story follows a young orphan named Tree-ear who dreams of becoming a master potter. Living under the care of the wise and kind-hearted Crane-man, Tree-ear is fascinated by the exquisite pottery crafted by Min, a skilled but gruff potter. Through determination and hard work, Tree-ear earns the opportunity to apprentice under Min, embarking on a journey filled with challenges, self-discovery, and the pursuit of artistic excellence. As he navigates the complexities of loyalty, perseverance, and ambition, Tree-ear learns valuable life lessons that shape his future and the world around him.