The Littlest Emperor. David Seow

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      Dedications

      "If we hope for what we do not yet have, we wait for it patiently."

       For my parents, my siblings, and the children who inspired this story—

       Samantha, Sebastian, Jeremy and Alexander—David Seow To Asmara and Kazymir, thank you for your help and inspiration—Olga Marie Polunin

      Cultural Background

       This mythical tale draws upon Chinese and Asian cultural traditions and practices. Life at an imperial court was extremely rigid and formal. Also regular activities would have included lavish banquets, opera, and poetry. Therefore it would not be surprising for a little boy to wish to experience a world that is less stuffy and yearn for a simpler more run way or life, even if only for a short time.

      The Chinese are famous for their exotic culinary delights including birds nest soup and jellyfish noodles. Bird's nest soup, a classic Chinese specialty, is a nutritious and healing delicacy, made from the nest of an Asian bird similar to the swift. Jellyfish noodles consist of shredded jellyfish, which is tasteless but very crunchy, and is eaten with a delicious sauce. The Littlest Emperor takes part in a dragon dance which is an important restive tradition in China, especially at Chinese New Year and other major festivals. The dragon can be very long and made of wood, cloth and paper, with poles attached to the dragon's belly. During the performance, performers hold the poles and raise the dragon, and this grand dance starts with the beats of roaring drums.

      Published by Tuttle Publishing, an imprint of Periplus Editions (HK) Ltd with editorial offices at 364 Innovation Drive, North Clarendon, VT 05759 U.S.A. and 61 Tai Seng Avenue, #02-12 Singapore 534167.

      Text © David Seow, 2004

       Illustrations © Olga Marie Polunin, 2004

       All rights reserved