Shen of the Sea facts for kids
First edition
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| Author | Arthur Bowie Chrisman |
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| Illustrator | Else Hasselriis |
| Country | United States |
| Genre | Children's short story collection |
| Publisher | E. P. Dutton |
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Publication date
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1925 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 252 |
| OCLC | 299415 |
| LC Class | PZ7.C45 Sh |
Shen of the Sea is a book filled with exciting short stories. It was written by Arthur Bowie Chrisman. The book was first published in 1925. A talented artist named Else Hasselriis drew over 50 cool pictures for the book using silhouettes (dark shapes against a light background).
The book was so good that its author, Arthur Bowie Chrisman, won the famous Newbery Medal in 1926. This award is given to the best children's book published in America the year before.
When the book first came out, its title page said A Book for Children. An early cover also called it Chinese Stories for Children. Both of these names have been used for the book in later versions.
Chrisman's 16 original stories are written like funny Chinese folk tales. These are old stories passed down through generations. The main story, "Shen of the Sea," is about a king. He tries to outsmart water demons to save his city from a big flood. Other stories explain how chopsticks were invented. One tale even suggests that fine china (fancy dishes) started from mud pies!
Amazing Stories in the Book
This book contains 16 unique and fun stories. Each one is like a little adventure!
Tales of Cleverness and Invention
- Ah Mee's Invention - This story is about how the printing press might have been invented.
- Shen of the Sea - Learn how a kingdom is saved by tricking powerful demons.
- Chop-Sticks - Discover the funny story behind the invention of chopsticks.
- That Lazy Ah Fun - Find out how gunpowder might have been created by accident.
- High as Han Hsin - This tale shares the story of how the kite was invented.
- Pies of the Princess - Read about the surprising origin of fine china.
Stories About Life and Wisdom
- How Wise Were the Old Men - A story that shows how life can take unexpected turns. It also talks about prophecies.
- Buy a Father - This tale teaches about being good and listening to your elders.
- Four Generals - See how being smart can help you win, even against big challenges.
- The Rain King's Daughter - A young woman uses her cleverness to stop a war.
- Many Wives - This story features a beautiful young woman and a king who isn't very bright.
- The Moon Maiden - A lovely love story.
- Ah Tcha the Sleeper - This story is all about tea.
- I Wish It Would Rain - Learn about a queen who always got what she wanted.
- Contrary Chueh Chun - A funny story about a man who always does or believes the opposite of everyone else.
- As Hai Low Kept House - A humorous tale about following instructions exactly. It leads to many funny problems!
