From School Library Journal
Grade 3-6?An exemplary foreword/source note introduces this morality tale. It is the publisher's goal to "...nourish and sustain the souls of [their] readers," and, to that end, this retelling restores the Buddhist principles to this Jataka story rather than presenting it merely as an animal folktale. The Golden Goose King is Buddha, and he relates a tale of love and self-sacrifice. A Queen desires a pair of golden geese, and when the Golden Goose King is captured, his captain, Sumulkha, refuses to leave his side. The king's fowler is overcome by the captain's loyalty and realizes he is in the presence of greatness. The King and Queen are impressed with the wisdom of the Golden Goose King's teachings and his admonition to "...remember the moral laws...Rule your kingdom righteously and win the hearts of your people." Despite its didactic intent, the story is not heavy handed, and is beautifully and elegantly retold. The language and syntax are soothing and peaceful. The gouache illustrations reflect the opulence of Indian/Asian palace life and include many folk motifs, particularly in the fabrics. Each painting is set off from the text with a yellow border, which makes the reading comfortable. Use this title to introduce the Buddhist culture or for a gentle story time offering.?Cheri Estes, Detroit Country Day School Middle School, Beverly Hills, MI
Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Midwest Book Review
Kids will findThe Golden Goose King an unusual story of how the Buddha achieved enlightenment, retelling the classic with an adaptation for juveniles. Good reading skills are a requirement here, but any interested in teaching kids about Eastern traditions and stories will find this a solid starting point.
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