The King Without a Throne

Once Upon a Time in China #2

by Jillian Lin, Shi Meng (Illustrator)

DID YOU KNOW that Confucius was a teacher who opened the first public school in the world? Read all about his life and his brilliant ideas, which people still study today – 2,500 years later. In The King Without A Throne, discover how Confucius became one of the greatest teachers in the history of China. Together with his following of students he traveled from kingdom to kingdom to give advice to kings. Even so, he wasn’t happy. Read the book to find out why, at the end of his life, Confucius thought he was a failure.

The simple language and beautiful illustrations make this book a wonderful reader or bedtime story. It is suitable for all ages, but children aged six to twelve years will especially enjoy reading this book.

32 pages, Paperback

First published February 16, 2015

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐲 China's most famous philosopher brought front and center in a child-friendly format:-)
September 4, 2018
Format: Kindle Edition

👍4.5 stars
This is one story in a great series highlighting the history and culture of China, eminently suitable for teaching pride in Chinese heritage or just learning more about the most populous country on Earth. This account of teacher/philosopher Confucius' life focuses on his struggle to disseminate his moral teachings and how they spread throughout Asia. Heavy on homalies like respect for elders and obedience, I thought it did leave some questions unanswered (like how Confucius and his followers eked out an existence since they had no paying jobs?) .

Like other books in the series, the format is great and includes the short, illustrated story, additional factoids, a short multiple choice quiz and a map that pinpoints the geographic area where Confucius traveled and taught. I think it would be perfect for family storytime. This one is good, but I thought the Emperor Who Built the Great Wall, same author and format, was better and more interesting to a wider reading public.

I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.

[Mererid Evanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This picture book has a very simple traditional account of the life of Confucius with appealing and colorful illustrations. Following that are some chunks of information for the "But is it a true story?" and the "What happened after that?" brigades. It is, I think, a good overview for children. Looking at it through a child's eyes, I think they would feel sorry for the boy who lost his father and wonder if he ever played at all. I'm not sure they would quite understand what was so wrong about a king taking a short holiday to enjoy horses and dancing. A little girl I know would certainly not! I can also hear her saying with infinite scorn, about the mythical beast, "That's NOT a unicorn!" And quite right too. With a descriptive illustration right there, why not just call it a qilin?

[Debbie Benson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book as part of an ARC review. I liked the combination of history and folk beliefs represented in this story. There is nice illustrations to go with the story that is both informative and easy to read. I liked the point form given at the end along with the questions to help one remember what they read.

[Jennifer Olivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a book in the Once Upon a Time in China series, by Jillian Lin. It is a very interesting story about Confucius. It is the perfect size for younger people to get interested in learning about such an interesting and important man. Very well written, and I thought the little quiz at the end was a great review of the information in the book. I did receive a free copy to read.

[Julie bradley]

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