The King’s Golden Beard

Gr 1-3–A fanatical king grows his golden beard so long that it extends out of his window, down the pathway, and around the world. As he keeps a watchful eye on its growth, he becomes obsessed with it. He wants to be the only one in the land with a beard. So he drafts a rule that no one in the land may grow a single inch of hair on their face, or else risk paying a severe price. Everyone is required to shave immediately. One day, a palace guard spots a beard in the distance, and the king demands that the culprit pay the price for breaking his rule because “the law is the law.” The palace guards follow their king’s orders precisely, much to his detriment. Despite the violence of the command, the king’s demise is rather benign on the page, making this a fun way to introduce readers to concepts such as self-indulgence and abuse of power. Using three main colors, the palette is consistent and engaging. Readers will be immersed in the fine details of the king’s beard and the palace guards’ efforts to carry out the punishment.