The King's Choice: A Folktale from India

by illustrated Yoko MItsuhashi Retold by K. Shivkumar, Yoko Mitsuhashi (Illustrator)

The lion's courtiers persuade him to try camel's meat but the results are unexpected.

Genres: Picture Books, Fiction, Childrens, India

Library Binding

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Tricia · Rating 2 out of 5]

This is a bizarre little story, with a trite ending about being kind, but truly the characters are greedy, sycophantic, and cowardly and do not make much sense in the scheme of things. Why does the camel agree to go with the lion? Why do the fox, vulture and leopard work together rather than turning on each other as they do the camel? Why don't they turn on the lion when he is weak? These are the questions that linger.

[K.S. Thompson · Rating 5 out of 5]

"To be a king is good. To be kind is better."

Sadly, this is the only book I have left from my childhood library. But it was always one of my favorites Yoko Mitsuhashi's illustrations are colorful, yet soft and filled with beautiful detail. I have often wished this little gem of a book were still available because it would make a beautiful baby shower gift.

[Cara Stone · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has wonderful illustrations, but may be a little long for a traditional library story time. Perhaps best with 1-3 children. The story is engaging, yet familiar feeling in the way it is presented. Recommended. Themes: loyalty, kindness

[Michelle Gray · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the story and the illustrations.

[Deborah · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved reading fairytales and folktales from different cultures growing up. What happens when a lion tries to visit the desert? Do his advisors have his best interest at heart? What will happen to the camel they meet?