Ling Cho and His Three Friends — V.J. Pacilio

A tale of wisdom, ebulliently illustrated

Long concerned for the three poor neighboring farmers who refuse to accept charity, the prosperous Ling Cho decides to ask their help in selling some of his wheat. They gladly agree and depart for the marketplace with one wagonload each. When the time comes for them to bring Ling Cho his portion of their earnings, none of the farmers has anything for him but a story. Ling Cho listens to each neighbor's excuse and then demonstrates wisdom in his response that will remain with readers long after the book is closed. His message: that true friends allow themselves to be helped. Carefully rhymed couplets and golden, animated paintings make this story both funny and deeply meaningful.