FROM OUR EDITORS

This first of the Babar adventures tells how the little elephant is rescued by a rich old lady in Paris after his mother is killed by a hunter. In Paris, Babar is educated and taught to be a gentleman. Though happy with the old lady, he misses his friends. When Babar's cousins Arthur and Celeste find him, Babar bids his old lady a fond farewell and the three elephants return to the forest. Home at last, Babar is crowned king and Celeste is crowned queen. Since 1931, Babar has charmed young audiences all over the world.

ANNOTATION

An orphaned baby elephant goes to live in the city with an old lady who gives him everything he wants, but he eventually returns to the forest where he is crowned king of the elephants.

FROM THE PUBLISHER

Translated from Jean de Brunhoff's original French, the adventures of the world's most popular elephant and his friends have enchanted an three generations. Delightfully amusing illustrations make this short collection of classic Babar tales a book to treasure for children young and old. "With many absurd and funny pictures, these tales of the popular elephant furnish hours of enjoyment to the young person."—Elementary English

FROM THE CRITICS

Children's Literature - Marilyn Courtot

Babar is one of childhood's most endearing and enduring characters. His adventures reflect a strong sense of justice and stress the importance of family and friends. This is the tale of Babar's adventure in the city and how he eventually married Celeste and became the new king of the elephants. 1966 (orig.