Customer Reviews

The Pea Blossom

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Ofttimes the retelling of a classic does not at all diminish the original work, but rather brings new life to a beloved story. Such is the case with Amy Lowry Poole's retelling and illustrating of Hans Christian Andersen's "The Pea Blossom," which was originally published in Danish in 1853.

Writer/illustrator Poole lived in Beijing, China, for four years where she studied scroll making. This background is reflected in her beautifully wrought paintings that so perfectly evoke the spirit of this timeless tale.

Many will remember that the story begins in a little garden outside of Beijing where five peas wait in a shell. As they impatiently anticipate the day when they'll be free of the shell, they dream of what they will do. One wants to fly to the sun, another intends to soar to the moon, while the smallest pea simply says, "I shall go wherever it is that I am meant to."

Finally, their shell is torn open by a boy who believes they're perfect for his peashooter. Youngsters will enjoy learning the fate of the peas, especially that of the smallest one whose life journey is a rewarding surprise.

Thanks to Amy Lowry Poole for introducing this thought provoking tale to another generation.

- Gail Cooke

A wonderful story that needed to be retold. That was accomplished in a gentle unique way. Illustrations were great! I gave this to my 3rd-grade granddaughter.