Common Sense Note
The characteristically detailed artwork blends with a story that is engrossing even by today's standards.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: Kevin McCaffrey
In this third installment of the Babar saga, the elephant monarch establishes his kingly credentials, as well as a capital city for his subjects--and author Jean de Brunhoff maintains his own credentials as a consummate storyteller.
What author of books for small children today would even attempt to develop so many complex ideas in such a way? But like any literary artist, he meets the challenge with simple, direct language that communicates understanding and acceptance of life as it happens.
There is much to observe in Babar's story. He picks a happy, beautiful spot to build his city, which concerns the fish there, but other animals smooth the way. The elephants work industriously and enjoy the fruits of their labor. In a reminder of how the world should work, they each pick jobs that will aid others.
Ever mindful of a child's concerns, de Brunhoff includes in Babar's worried, restless night a disturbing dream that nevertheless foretells that everything will turn out right. (Note that de Brunhoff delays illustrating the dream, depicting its comforting conclusion, not its scary beginning).
Kids process ideas in books wisely and alertly, and de Brunhoff has respect for these qualities. Knowing he was dying of tuberculosis, he wished to pass on to his own children an unflinching sense of tragedy and triumph, responsibility and acquiescence. His graceful vision makes you long to have met him, but at least through his books, another generation can fall under his sway.
The Story of Babar, the Little Elephant opens this classic series, and other favorites include Babar and His Children and The Travels of Babar.
From The Book
In one illustration, the dromedaries are bringing Babar all his heavy baggage and all the things that he has bought out in the big, wide world during his honeymoon. Babar thanks them: "You must be tired, gentlemen. Won't you rest under the shade of the palm trees?" Then, turning to the Old Lady and to Cornelius, he says, "Now we will be able to build our city."
Plot Summary:
Rome wasn't built in a day, but it seems Celesteville practically is when Babar leads the other elephants in constructing a capital city and creating a pleasant and well-ordered civilization. But into every idyll some misfortune must fall, and lessons are be learned on the road to ultimate happiness.
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