Common Sense Note
Rich and engaging writing, an appealing story, and lovely art provide a literary playground for the imaginative youngster.
Common Sense Review
Reviewed By: S. K. List
Timeless and enchanting, the Babar books have sustained generations of fans, and BABAR AND ZEPHIR is as rewarding as better-known books in the series. Anyone brought up on the tales of Babar knows the feisty Zephir's prominence in the elephant's household and in the stories about the royal family. Although Babar does not appear in this story (despite having his name in the title), Zephir's adventure is just as much a treasure as the others.
Children love seeing the monkeys' own country, as well as the elaborate military operations they mount in search of the missing Isabelle. Kids settle in happily, soothed by the warmth of Zephir's family. And they are both fascinated and amused by de Brunhoff's rough-hewn but cuddly creatures--the beautiful young Eleonore, the elderly mermaid-aunt, Crustadele, and the naughty but buffoonish Polomoche and his pipe-smoking gang.
That the diminutive Zephir can rescue Isabelle with only an old sack, a little music, a few stories, and a handy clown costume (plus some magical assistance by a mermaid) empowers children. Zephir is clearly one of them, and his courage becomes theirs.
From The Book
What's this I've caught? Zephir asks himself, greatly surprised. And then the beautiful creature speaks:."Oh, Mr. Monkey," she says, "... Leave me here to swim about with my sisters. My name is Eléonore. Maybe, some day, you'll have need of me. If so, throw three pebbles into the water, and repeat my name three times. No matter where I am, I'll hear you and come to you. I will never forget you."
Plot Summary:
The brave little monkey Zephir rescues Princess Isabelle from a band of monsters in a beautifully drawn tale from the beloved series revolving around the court of the elephant monarch Babar. Filled with tropical sunshine and whimsical characters, Zephir's great adventure will captivate readers.
Related Books:
Readers interested in meeting Babar himself (with Zephir in a supporting role) should start with the matchless Babar and His Children or, regardless of the time of year, Babar and Father Christmas.
Rate It!
| Content | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CS | adults | kids | ||
Sexual Content |
 |
|
||
Violence |
|
|
||
Language |
|
|
||
Message |
|
|
||
Social Behavior |
 |
 |
||
Commercialism |
|
|
||
Drug/Alcohol/Tobacco |
|
|
||
