About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the weight of a promise or struggling to understand why doing the right thing often feels so difficult. King Tamar, a young ruler, loses a game of chance and must journey across a land inspired by Indian mythology to fulfill a debt of honor. It is a profound exploration of 'dharma' or duty, teaching children that integrity is not just about big gestures but about the consistency of one's character. Lloyd Alexander weaves a high-fantasy quest filled with talking animals and magical beings that serves as an accessible introduction to Eastern philosophical concepts. While the adventure is thrilling, the heart of the story lies in Tamar's personal growth and his realization that wisdom can come from a lowly monkey or a simple villager just as easily as a king. It is a sophisticated choice for middle schoolers who are beginning to navigate the complexities of social responsibility and moral accountability.
