Rhyming tales are a challenge for writers and for readers. However, first-time author V. J. Pacilio has perfected both poetic craft and story line. The rhythm of his couplets never overshadows the humor of the tale or the richness of his language. Although young readers may read the descriptive prose slowly, they will jump into the meter and the setting.

The only squeak in Pacilio's narrative song is the slight confusion in the resolution of the tale. Although adults will smile at Ling Cho's backhanded wisdom, children may not get it.

Ling Cho's friends come to him and explain why they cannot give him his share of the grain profits. Children will understand that Ling Cho's first two friends make up untrue and wild tales, and they may wonder why Ling Cho does not become angry. When Ling Cho then turns a scolding eye on the third friend who tells the truth, children may not grasp that Ling Cho offers a good deal to this honest man, and nothing to the others.

One perceptive eight-year-old boy claimed, "Oh, I get it!" only after an adult reader had explained the story's consequences carefully. However, the ending allows children and adults the opportunity to talk about the story and discuss human behavior.

Children enjoy the humorous, expressive, and energetic illustrations of Scott Cook, illustrator of the acclaimed book With a Whoop and a Holler, by Nancy Van Laan. Another amusing, twisting tale set in Asia that unveils greed and quiet wisdom is One Grain of Rice, by Demi.