Product Description

Relates how a Russian peasant known as Stupid Emilien manages to outwit the Czar and marry his daughter.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #3354538 in Books
• Published on: 1991-09
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Hardcover
• 32 pages

From Publishers Weekly
In this stylish version of a Russian fairy tale, a wise rabbit demonstrates that wealth and power are not necessarily the keys to the good life. Nicknamed "Stupid" by his brothers, Emilien prefers sitting on the stove in winter and the roof in summer to seeking his fortune. It seems he possesses magic powers that help and amaze his friends and worry the jealous czar. When the monarch attempts to dispose of the "rude peasant," Emilien's tricks not only save his skin, but win him the hand of the czarevna. In his debut, Mendelson's retelling is serviceable, though the tone occasionally falls flat. However, this minor shortcoming is overshadowed by the lush illustrations. A rich palette of predominantly deep reds and blues depicts a czarist Russia "peopled" entirely by white rabbits. This witty choice of character, combined with meticulous period details, produces bunny icons, black-booted bunny palace guards and cossack dancers, and rabbits donning luxurious robes and brilliant crown jewels. The effect is regal elegance infused with a touch of whimsy. Youngest readers will be amused by Emilien's hijinks, but readers of any age will enjoy this fantastical outing. Ages 4-8.
Copyright 1991 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From School Library Journal
Grade 1-3-- Sumptuous illustrations, richly colored and as bejeweled as Faberge eggs, decorate this tale of a Russian peasant who wins the hand of the czar's daughter. Although the book appears on the surface to be an adaptation of the traditional story of the young fool who, because of his good heart and a gift of enchantment, wins riches and a royal marriage, this version lacks the homely lesson of innocence and virtue rewarded. Stupid Emilien is from the beginning possessed with wondrous powers, peasant though he appears, and by dint of his magic, transforms his village, mistreats the czar, creates castles in the air, and marries the czarevna. To be sure, he chooses simple village life over royal riches at the end, thereby proving that ``. . . Stupid Emilien was not so stupid'' after all, but readers will wonder if perhaps he will not choose to unleash his power one more time or, indeed, whether the royal princess will truly live happily ever after as a peasant wife. Mendelson portrays his characters as white rabbits, adding a surreal touch to the theatrical scenes of peasant village and royal palace. In sum, the book is a showcase of decorative art, barely concealing the slim foundation of a contrived tale. --Shirley Wilton, Ocean County College, Toms River, NJ
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Customer Reviews

Rabbits? Russia? Yay.
First off, the illustrations truly are beautiful. They're well-defined, but also allow for aesthetic..um...gorgeousness. But that's only half of it. I loved this when I was little 70% for the story and 30% for the illustrations.
It's about a fellow who just leads a simple life at home. One day he performs some magic, which makes people come to him for more magic. The only wish he will not grant is to make the village mayor czar.
So the the mayor spreads rumors about Stupid Emilien. They reach the czar, who hears that a terrible monster means to overthrow him. Neat stuff happens, everybody gets their due, there are ships and magic and a czarevna and witty comments and best of all, a moral about material possesions. I have no doubt that were it not set in Russia, it would be a classic.

the best children's book ever
When I was a kid, my dad bought this book for me. the illustrations are incredible. It has a cute little story about a rabbit with magical powers and a czar. I love this book, and I have just purchased myself another for a university fine arts project.

you won't be disapointed with this book.

:)

SPIFFY BOOK!!!!!!!!
This book is wonderful! The pictures are gorgeous! This book is great for kids and adults of all ages and makes a wonderful book for storytellers!