The Monkey King

Written by Ji-li Jiang
Illustrated by Hui Hui Su-Kennedy

The Monkey King, though specifically ancient Chinese in character and origin, comes from a folk tradition which appears to be universal. The essential character—be it Wily E. Coyote, or Brer Rabbit—seems to be Man himself. He (or she) is an all too fallible character who, while trying to live by high ideals, constantly slips and falls when fun proves irresistible. In this version of the story, we learn how Monkey is born, becomes King of the Monkeys, how in his search for immortality he alternately charms and annoys the Great Jade Emperor. In short, it’s a fairy tale of triumphs over adversity as Monkey King becomes more human even as he becomes god-like.

Is there a lesson to be learned here? Not really. But if you know kids—particularly those charming but mischievous ones—you’ll know that monkey kings have already been part of your life. It’s just that this one—often in the nick of time—is particularly loveable!

Spanish translation available.

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