Peng’s Vase: A Chinese Folktale

In this retelling of a Chinese folktale, an aging emperor in need of a worthy heir challenges the children of the capital city to plant a seed he gives them. Little Peng, who loves to garden, resolves to do his best, but days go by with no result, and when the time he’s been allotted passes, Peng has nothing to show for his efforts. Though he’s distraught by his failure to grow anything, especially upon encountering the other children’s magnificent blooms, wise words from his parents urge him forward. With only an empty vase and the truth to present, Peng acts on his honor to face the emperor, who in turn reveals the challenge’s true nature. Gentle narration from the Yuen-Killicks complements Proietti’s dreamlike illustrations of “an imaginary ancient Chinese world”; an illustrator’s note invites readers to “join me in appreciating the beauty and inspiration that Asian art provides.” Ages 4–8. (Apr.)