Koi are unusually beautiful creatures. Perhaps because of their unusual beauty, koi have inspired a variety of legends. The recurrent theme in these legends is that koi, because of their endurance and perseverance, have become symbolic of overcoming adversity and fulfilling one's destiny. In one of the more celebrated versions of this legend, koi are rewarded for their endurance and perseverance by being transformed into dragon fish.
In their book KOI, Margery and Sheldon Harnick have created their own version of this legend in photographs and verses. In their version, koi are rewarded for a reason other than endurance and perseverance. Though the years, the gods have noted how much pleasure men and women have derived simply from observing the prismatic beauty of the koi. For this gift to mankind, the gods decided to transform the most beautiful koi into majestic and powerful dragons.
Margery Harnick's photographs not only show this transformation taking place but also capture the remarkable beauty of these creatures in ways that most people have never seen. (Additional photographs by Matt Harnick portray the gods and the dragons.) And since koi are Asian in origin, Sheldon Harnick has chosen to deliver the narrative in the form of haiku verses. The union of photographs and verses makes a charming and artistically satisfying combination.
Industry Reviews
Margery Harnick joins the pantheon of extraordinary photographers. In her latest book, dedicated to those exotic, mysterious, and gloriously beautiful Japanese koi, she captures the almost religious essence of these mythic creatures. And Sheldon Harnick's haiku verses celebrate a culture which, incredibly, traces its origins to Paleolithic times. -- Harold Prince (Producer, director)
In this masterful book, Margie, Matt and Sheldon Harnick weave together their disparate crafts. Through their luminous photos and his beautiful poetry, they frame the mighty Koi and get after its essence. You'll never see Koi fish the same way again. -- Lin-Manuel Miranda (Creator: "Hamilton")
This book of astonishing photos of koi by Margery, transformations by Matthew and haiku by Sheldon Harnick is easily the most exquisite family endeavor i ever saw. That this gorgeous book was created by a family is testament to what we could all do if we were all family in this way. I haven't stopped talking about this book, these images and their power. You have to see it! -- Marsha Norman (Playwright, librettist: "night, Mother", "The Color Purple")
Margery and Sheldon Harnick bring the exuberance of their 51-year marriage to this vibrant exploration of the exotic koi fish, a spectacular photographic journey that captures the couple's shared enthusiasm and bottomless spirit. Along with their son Matthew, the Harnicks uncover the enduring myth and mystery of the koi, with colorful portraits and enchanting prose. -- Marlo Thomas (Actress: stage, screen, television)
Sheldon, Margery and Matt Harnick's "KOI" is lyrically and visually beautiful, timelessly poignant and teeming with magic and joy. I defy you not to see the world with fresh eyes after you've experienced this heaven-sent dose of enchantment. It is a total treat for the heart, mind, and eyes. -- David Rockwell (Architect, set designer)
Koi: A Modern Folktaleis a magnificent read, and the exquisite photographs by Margery Gray Harnick and Matt Harnick help elevate the book to a higher level. It truly transports the reader to different realms, and it touches their reading audience on an emotional level, thus leaving them in total awe of the koi. -- Markos Papadatos, Digital Journal
This is a delightful book that can be enjoyed by readers young and old. It would make a fantastic gift. -- Beth Fish Reads
A lovely new legend mimicking the stories of old, with absolutely stunning photographs, that brings the wonders of koi to readers of all ages. -- Feathered Quill Book Reviews
