King's Golden Beard, The

Reach for this book when your child is struggling with a case of the 'me-me-mes' or when you want to gently point out the absurdity of being self-centered. It is a perfect choice for kids who are learning about rules, fairness, and the importance of considering others. The story centers on a king whose vanity regarding his golden beard leads him to create ridiculous laws that eventually backfire on him in a funny, logical twist. While the king's ego is large, the book stays lighthearted and avoids being preachy. It is an ideal read for 4 to 8-year-olds who enjoy cartoon-style humor and seeing authority figures get their comeuppance through their own foolishness. Parents will appreciate the lesson in humility and the way the book models how pride often comes before a fall.