Shen of the Sea: A Book for Children

"Shen of the Sea: A Book for Children" by Arthur Bowie Chrisman is a collection of children's stories written in the early 20th century. The book features tales steeped in Chinese folklore, highlighting themes of creativity and mischief, particularly through the antics of a boy named Ah Mee, whose adventures often lead to unforeseen consequences. These charming narratives are accompanied by illustrations that enhance the whimsical nature of the stories. The opening of the book introduces Ah Mee, a mischievous child who constantly finds himself in trouble despite his charming innocence. Set against the backdrop of a rainy day, the narrative begins with a humorous exchange between Ah Mee’s father, Ching Chi, and his uncle Ching Cha, who think playfully about punishing Ah Mee for his antics. The story quickly reveals that Ah Mee turns his father's guidance upside down by obeying instructions to not play dragon, only to play elephant instead, leading to comedic and chaotic situations that affect his family and their home. As the tale unfolds, the reader is drawn into the lively and enchanting world where creativity flourishes, guided by the playful spirit of childhood. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Arthur Bowie Chrisman was an American author. He was born in Clarke County, Virginia. Chrisman was educated in a one-room school and attended Virginia Polytechnic Institute from 1906 to 1908 but left at the end of his sophomore year. His collection of sixteen short stories, Shen of the Sea: A Book for Children (1925), received the Newbery Medal in 1926. Chrisman's other works included The Wind That Wouldn't Blow: Stories of the Merry Middle Kingdom for Children, and Myself (1927), Clarke County, 1836–1936 (1936), and Treasures Long Hidden: Old Tales and New Tales of the East (1941).