The Elephant's Pillow: A Chinese Bedtime Story

by Diana Reynolds Roome, Jude Daly

Rich, spoiled little Sing Lo demands to see the most fabulous sight Peking has to offer — the immense Imperial Elephant. Since the old Emperor died the elephant hasn't slept a wink, and Sing Lo is sure he can cure the animal’s insomnia. He showers the elephant with tempting gifts — sweet buns, a soothing drink, a silk pillow — yet the elephant still can’t sleep, and Sing Lo has nothing more to give. Or does he? This lovely story is enhanced by Jude Daly’s gorgeous, richly hued illustrations, which evoke the splendor of Imperial China.

Genres: Picture Books, Childrens

32 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 2003

Reviews

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

A little long for preschool story time, this one would be great for older kids. The pictures are beautiful!

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sing Lo, the son of a rich merchant in Peking, constantly searches for some new thing in his pampered yet bored existence. He enlists his rickshaw man to show him the "greatest sight of all." The man takes the boy to see the Imperial Elephant, who refuses to see people and cannot sleep ever since the old Emperor died. Sing Lo searches for many things to help the elephant sleep: buns, milk with ginger and honey, and a pillow. At last the elephant falls asleep! In the process, Sing Lo loses his boredom as he cares for someone other than himself. I considered it a subtle and deftly-told tale on the joys of service.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book has lovely, richly colored pictures, it's a sweet, gentle, kind story, and it's an excellent bedtime read. Sure to make tired little ones, and *certainly* tired adults appreciate that cozy bed.

[Mckinley · Rating 2 out of 5]

Taking care of/thinking for others.

[Diana Pettis · Rating 4 out of 5]

My son Xander is fascinated by elephants and today at the Springvale Library our Shelia Dube the childrens' librarian recommended this book. Read a loud for children 6 and under.

[Suzy · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely story, one i enjoyed reading to my 2 year daughter for her bedtime story.