Pigtail of Ah Lee Ben Loo and Other Tales by John Bennett is a whimsical and imaginative collection of short stories and verse inspired by Chinese folklore and storytelling traditions. Winner of the Newbery Medal in 1928, this illustrated volume blends fantasy, humor, and gentle wisdom in tales that captivate both young and older readers.
The title story introduces Ah Lee Ben Loo, a clever and kind-hearted character whose adventures reflect themes of honor, mischief, and poetic justice. The collection includes fables, parables, and light-hearted rhymes that echo the rhythm and charm of traditional Eastern storytelling, though filtered through a Western literary lens.
Bennett’s writing is lyrical and playful, often accompanied by moral lessons or clever twists. His use of rhythm and wordplay makes the stories ideal for reading aloud, and the accompanying illustrations enhance the magic and personality of each tale.
While the book reflects the sensibilities of its time, it stands out for its creative voice and its effort to introduce children to stories inspired by another culture, albeit through an imaginative reinterpretation.
Pigtail of Ah Lee Ben Loo remains a unique entry in early American children’s literature—distinctive for its fusion of fantasy, humor, and cross-cultural curiosity.
