Message in the Mooncake
​
During the Mid-Autumn Festival, Su-Ling’s small village is planning a rebellion against the Mongolian invaders – and Su-Ling wants to help! Can she use her wits and courage to deliver a secret message hidden in a box of mooncakes, without getting caught by Mongol guards? Set 800 years ago in the Yuan Dynasty, this thrilling tale is based on an ancient Chinese legend, which is explained in the educational endnotes.
Sapphire's Legacy
In 2023, Sapphire was diagnosed with lung cancer. Despite her condition, she remained steadfast and intent on sharing her spirit and stories with children everywhere.
​
In the midst of her battle with cancer, she ecstatically signed the contract for her first published book Message in the Mooncake. In August 2023, Sapphire passed away peacefully and fulfilled in knowing she had completed her journey as an author.
​​
Message in the Mooncake includes a dedication to Sapphire's grandchildren: Garrett and Heather. Their love for reading and the joy shared with their Pho Pho (Grandmother) during story time was Sapphire's core inspiration for writing stories that would bring that same joy to all children.
​
Her hope was that the spirit, wisdom, and humour on which she based her stories would entertain and delight children long after she was gone.
"Children deserve moments when they are amazed, delighted, and filled with wonder; at times they should be filled with questions, emotions, or quiet thoughts; at other times, be inspired. I want my stories to be one of many vehicles that brings them these experiences.
Part of the fabric of life is storytelling. Whether it is folklore that Grandma tells, the ways of village life long ago that Grandpa relates, the stories that teachers and librarians read aloud, the books Mom and Dad buy, or bring home from the library, and don’t forget the ghostly tales we tell around a campfire - stories enrapture us."
​
- Sapphire​
