The Empty Pot

Rating:
Summary: A exemplary book that teaches some important lessons.
Review: The Empty Pot is set in China, with an aging Emperor who is faced with the problem of wisely selecting an appropriate successor. At first blush, what seems to be an absurdly foolish test to the reader, (whoever grows the best flower in a years time from one seed that the Emperor hands out, will succeed as heir) results in a test that was clearly judicious and enlightening. As the reader follows the hardship of one little boy named Ping, who persists in trying to make his seed sprout; the reader can't help but empathize with his struggle, embarrasment and ridicule. Ping possesses qualities that many of us need to refine, develop or even attain: perseverance, humility, courage and honesty. I like this book because reading it helps to teach these qualities and clearly illustrates the adage "Honesty is the best policy." A truism that has been ignored in these times. The reader discovers that Ping's weakness is really his strength, his failure is really his success and his problem is really the Emperor's solution.

Rating:
Summary: A beautiful book with a wonderful lesson!!
Review: This is one of my favorite books to read with my two and three year olds. It is beautifully done, with a wonderful lesson/moral to the story. It is true to the Chinese tradition of story telling to help educate. In a warm embrassing tone, the book moves the reader to understand the importance of truth and honesty in everyday living.

Rating:
Summary: Great Lesson For Children
Review: This is one of my favorite books to share with children. It teaches a very important lesson...truth is the best choice! It is a book that can be shared again and again.