Hans Christian Andersen- First published in 1835.
Reading Level: 9+ Number of Pages: 2 Genre: Classic Fairy-tale
Summary: There once was an emperor who was very vain, and was always in the attitude of buying new and fabulous suits of clothing for himself. One day there came a couple of swindlers who promised to make him the most fantastic piece of clothing they had ever seen. The men promised a garment of such incredulity and awe that those who were stupid or unworthy of their office would not be able to see it. Intrigued, the emperor commissioned the garment. His courtiers and ministers who went on to check the work of the swindlers did not say to the king that there was no cloth on the looms, for they didn't want to seem like they were stupid or unfit for their position. Instead they praised the finery of the swindlers, and promised that the emperor would look incredible in the new clothes.
When at last there came a big day for a parade, the emperor was to try on his new clothes. Of course, he could see nothing, but gave no sign of it. Instead he paid the swindlers and praised their hard work, and exiting out into the parade he marched boldly. His courtiers pretended to hold up the train of his cloak, for they did not want to appear to be too stupid for the office they held.
This way they marched in ridiculous manner until a small child exclaimed, "Look! The emperor is not wearing anything at all!" At this, the emperor was touched at the simple virtue of children, and learned his lesson. But he still had to continue on in the parade like there really were fabulous clothes on him.
My Impressions:This is a funny analogy to explain how we shouldn't believe everything people tell us.
Parent's Guide:None, really.
Recommendations: Check it out, Andersen is a classic.
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