Title: The Emperor’s Regret
Author: Barbara A. Pierce
Publisher: New Leaf Media, LLC
ISBN: 978-1970072334
Genre: Children / YA / Educational
Pages: 44
Reviewed by: Barbara Bamberger Scott
Hollywood Book Reviews
In this richly colorful story by author and educator Barbara A. Pierce, a young man with wealth and power wishes he were somewhere else, someone else perhaps. When his wish is fulfilled, though, it may not be at all what he expects.
Paheni is Emperor of his land, always knowing before his father passed away that he would someday assume this responsibility and have to concentrate fully on it. Once he becomes his country’s leader, the reality of that challenge, the drudgery and boring routine, finally drive him to consult with a sage, Haknobee. Feeling a bit overwhelmed, the wise man takes some time to come up with a solution that he and the ruler agree seems ideal. They will go to the deep jungle to talk to a parrot of Haknobee’s acquaintance, who is also seeking a change of lifestyle and direction. The trip, beginning soon after their agreement, is tough, as the two seekers ride in a royal coach through the dark, tangled jungle to reach the home of the parrot. To Paheni, this wild world seems like a paradise of freedom. When he meets the parrot at last, though, the young emperor is suddenly filled with doubts, still questioning the prospect of changing places. But a hidden voice decrees that the trade has been made and the boy ruler is suddenly free as a bird. His wish to be unburdened of responsibility has finally come true. But will he enjoy this new role as a feathered creature in this mysterious, potentially dangerous natural environment? Will this be the best thing that has ever happened to him, or a new kind of nightmare?
Pierce is a retired teacher who has written numerous works for children, inspired again and again by their fascination with her words to continue her creative endeavors. Her prose style is geared both for youngsters who may read or listen to the stories she has constructed, and is also capable of engaging an older audience because of her deft, often erudite use of language and the over-arching significance of the subject matter.
This book, with its brilliant, soft and sometimes brightly bordered illustrations and twisting tale, fulfills Pierce’s stated purpose to remind thoughtful readers that decisions should be made carefully, not impulsively, and consequences considered fully in advance.