
A rainy afternoon finds an entire household squeezed together, the air thick with chatter and the occasional clash of bamboo sticks. In the midst of this cozy chaos, a spirited boy named Ah Mee refuses to stay still, constantly reinventing himself as a dragon, an elephant, and other wild creatures—much to the bemusement and occasional frustration of his parents, Ching Chi and Ching Cha. Their attempts to keep him out of the cabbage patch only spark new, inventive excuses, turning everyday moments into a playful tug‑of‑war between obedience and imagination.
The tale weaves in the legend of the Shen, mischievous sea spirits that whisper through the story’s vivid illustrations, adding a touch of mythic wonder to the domestic scene. With lively dialogue and colorful descriptions, the narrative invites young listeners to revel in the joy of make‑believe, while gently reminding them of the balance between fun and responsibility. It’s a spirited, picture‑rich adventure that celebrates creativity and the lively dynamics of family life.
Language
en
Duration
~3 hours (211K characters)
Publisher of text edition
Project Gutenberg
Credits
Al Haines, Cindy Beyer & the online Project Gutenberg team at https://www.pgdpcanada.net
Release date
2021-04-30
Rights
Public domain in the USA.
1889–1953
Best remembered for winning the 1926 Newbery Medal, this American writer brought a playful, story-rich imagination to children's literature. His best-known book, Shen of the Sea, helped make his name with readers who loved folktale-style adventures.
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