Stone Soup (utgåvan 2004)

A retelling of the tale set in China, with delicate, beautiful watercolor illustrations.

See also: Thank You, Omu! by Oge Mora; Thukpa for All by Praba Ram ( )

When three monks stumble upon a small village, they find that the villagers no longer trust outsiders. In order to solve this, they decide to make stone soup, a dish that needs everyone's input and cooperation. Soon, the villagers find that the more you give, the richer you are. I loved this book as a child and I still love it now. I think the message is something everyone can learn from and the watercolor illustrations make it beautiful to look at. ( )

"Stone Soup" is a traditional tale with many different versions. Author John J. Muth chose China for the setting in this rendition. Muth’s soft, pastel artwork contributes to the serene mood of the three monks, our main characters. As the three descend upon a village, they notice what all the villagers lack. Using wit, they pull out neighbors one by one until, “something magical began to happen among the villagers.” This tale offers lessons in kindness, happiness, and community. ( )

Happiness does not come from being isolated and alone from the world. It comes from coming together with your community, loved ones, and just other human beings in general, where everyone's small contribution brings an abundance of love and laughter. Happiness comes from sharing your experiences with others, and this classic tale encompasses just that. The watercolor illustrations of this book are beautiful, and everything about the book is pleasant and reassuring. ( )

"Three wise monks trick a frightened community into finding happiness by teaching them the magic of generosity." ( )