Who is the author of 'The Story of Babar'?

The author of 'The Story of Babar' is Jean De Brunhoff.

What are the main themes in 'The Story of Babar'?

The main themes in 'The Story of Babar' include Animal Stories, Early Readers.

What genre is 'The Story of Babar'?

'The Story of Babar' is categorized as Early Readers.

Who is the main character in 'The Story of Babar'?

The main character in 'The Story of Babar' is Babar, a young elephant who embarks on various adventures in the story.

What journey does Babar embark on in the story?

In 'The Story of Babar,' Babar embarks on a journey from the jungle, where he lives with his fellow elephants, to the city. After his mother is killed by a hunter, Babar flees to the city to escape the dangers of the jungle. There, he experiences a new world filled with human characters and different ways of life. Eventually, Babar returns to the jungle to share his knowledge and new ideas, leading to the establishment of a more civilized community among the elephants.

What are some important themes present in 'The Story of Babar'?

Some important themes present in 'The Story of Babar' include: Adventure and Exploration: Babar embarks on a journey from the jungle to the city, representing the theme of exploration and the broader world beyond one's home. Family and Belonging: The importance of family is highlighted as Babar seeks to build a home and family after the loss of his mother. Growth and Responsibility: Babar's transition from a young elephant to a wise king illustrates themes of personal growth and the responsibilities that come with leadership. Cultural Change and Adaptation: Babar's adaptation to life in the city reflects themes of cultural change and the blending of traditions. Justice and Fairness: As king, Babar embodies the principles of justice and fairness, addressing the needs and concerns of his subjects.

How does Babar change throughout the book?

In 'The Story of Babar' by Jean De Brunhoff, Babar undergoes significant changes throughout the narrative. Initially, Babar is a young elephant living in the jungle, embodying innocence and naivety. After experiencing the hardships of losing his mother and encountering the city, he learns about human civilization and its complexities. Babar adopts human behaviors, such as dressing in suits and engaging in social practices, which signifies his adaptation and growth. By the end of the book, Babar transforms into a leader who takes responsibility for his community by becoming the king of the elephants. His journey reflects themes of resilience, leadership, and the blending of different cultures. Overall, Babar evolves from a naive young elephant into a wise and compassionate leader, demonstrating growth through his experiences.

What is the significance of Babar becoming king in the story?

Babar becoming king in 'The Story of Babar' symbolizes the transition from childhood to adulthood and the responsibilities that come with leadership. His journey from a young elephant to a wise and just king highlights themes of growth, perseverance, and the importance of kindness and leadership qualities. Babar's rise to kingship also serves to show how one's experiences and challenges can shape their character and capabilities, emphasizing that great leaders are often those who have faced and overcome adversity.

The Story of Babar

In 'The Story of Babar' by Jean De Brunhoff, we are introduced to a charming young elephant who embarks on an extraordinary adventure after the tragic loss of his mother. Babar escapes the jungle and discovers the enchanting world of humans, where he learns about elegance and civility. With a little guidance, he adopts human ways and returns to his homeland to lead his fellow elephants with wisdom and grace. This whimsical tale explores themes of growth, resilience, and the importance of staying true to one's roots. Will Babar successfully bridge the gap between two worlds, or will he lose touch with his elephant heritage?

By Jean De Brunhoff

Published: 1937

""I will not forget the lessons I have learned in the jungle, for they will help me lead my kingdom with wisdom and kindness.""

Early Readers Animal Stories

Start Listening

0:000:00

What Readers Say About This Book

The classic story of literature’s most beloved elephant. After his mother is killed by a hunter, Babar avoids capture by escaping to the city, where he is befriended by the kindly Old Lady. Later, with cousins Celeste and Arthur, he returns to the great forest to be crowned King of the Elephants. With the original illustrations from Jean de Brunhoff's 1931 classic, this first Babar story has enchanted generations.

The Mike & Casey Show

Dive into captivating book discussions with our expert hosts

Key Points from The Story of Babar

In "The Story of Babar," the plot development intricately weaves the transformation of its titular character, Babar, from a young, grieving elephant to a wise leader of his community. The narrative begins with the tragic loss of Babar's mother at the hands of a hunter, a pivotal moment that not only serves as the catalyst for Babar's journey but also introduces themes of loss and resilience. Babar's subsequent escape to the human world symbolizes a departure from innocence and an immersion into complexity where he is exposed to human sophistication and social manners. For example, his interactions with the old lady who takes him in illustrate his rookie struggles and gradual adaptation to a new way of life, highlighting his determination to grow despite the trauma he endures. Significantly, this journey is not purely a quest for knowledge but also an exploration of identity. Upon returning to the jungle, Babar brings back what he has learned—an amalgamation of human civility and his innate leadership abilities—to govern his fellow elephants. His transformation reflects broader themes of growth, the balance between tradition and modernity, and the responsibility that comes with leadership. Babar's evolution signifies that growth often requires embracing change while staying rooted in one’s origins, illustrating a rich narrative arc that resonates with young readers as a tale of hope and self-progress.

About the Author

Jean De Brunhoff

Jean De Brunhoff (1899-1937) was a French author and illustrator best known for creating the beloved children's book series featuring Babar the Elephant. His most notable works include 'Babar the Elephant' (1931), 'Babar and His Children' (1936), and 'Babar Loses His Crown' (1934), all of which showcase his whimsical storytelling and charming illustrations. De Brunhoff's writing style is characterized by a gentle narrative tone, imaginative plots, and a blend of fantasy and childhood adventures, capturing the hearts of readers with the timeless tale of Babar and his kingdom.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Jean De Brunhoff
Published: September 1937
Publisher: Random House Books for Young Readers
ISBN: 0394805755
Language: English
Pages: 54
Genres: Animal StoriesEarly Readers

Purchase Options

Buy on Amazon

Buy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

How to Castrate a Bull

Dave Hitz

The Big Ship and the Little Digger

Ryan Petersen

Where the Wild Things Are

Maurice Sendak

Animalkind

Gene Stone, Ingrid Newkirk

The Ramona Collection

Beverly Cleary

Because of Winn-Dixie

Kate DiCamillo

Lentil

Robert McCloskey

Goodnight Moon Board Book 60th Anniversary Edition

Margaret Wise Brown

Showing 8 of 27 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Book Collections you might like →

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, is an American actress, humanitarian, and author known for her role as Rachel Zane on the television series "Suits." After marrying Prince Harry in 2018, she became a prominent figure in the British royal family and an advocate for social justice and women's rights. In 2021, she published her first children's book, "The Bench," which explores the bond between fathers and sons through a mother's eyes. Markle's literary work reflects her commitment to storytelling and her passion for fostering empathy and understanding. Beyond literature, she co-founded the Archewell Foundation with Prince Harry to promote compassion and well-being globally.

View Collection

Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations

Oprah Winfrey is a globally renowned media mogul, talk show host, and philanthropist. She gained fame through her groundbreaking talk show, "The Oprah Winfrey Show," which ran for 25 years and became one of the highest-rated programs in television history. Winfrey has significantly impacted literature through her influential book club, Oprah's Book Club, which has propelled numerous books to bestseller status and fostered a love of reading across diverse audiences. She is also the author of several books, including her memoir "The Life You Want," and has contributed to numerous inspirational and self-help publications. Beyond her literary contributions, Winfrey has been a powerful advocate for education and empowerment, founding the Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls in South Africa.

View Collection

Michelle Obama's Book Recommendations

Michelle Obama is an American attorney, author, and former First Lady of the United States, serving from 2009 to 2017. She is widely recognized for her advocacy on issues such as education, military families, healthy eating, and poverty awareness. Her memoir, "Becoming," published in 2018, has been a global bestseller and acclaimed for its insightful and inspiring narrative. Michelle Obama has also launched initiatives like "Let’s Move!" to combat childhood obesity and the "Reach Higher" campaign to encourage higher education. Her work continues to influence and empower millions around the world.

View Collection

Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations

Ellen DeGeneres is an acclaimed American comedian, television host, actress, and writer. She gained immense popularity with her Emmy-winning daytime talk show, "The Ellen DeGeneres Show," which debuted in 2003 and ran for 19 successful seasons. In the literary world, DeGeneres has authored several bestselling books, including "My Point... And I Do Have One" and "Seriously... I'm Kidding," which showcase her signature humor and candid storytelling. Her work has significantly contributed to discussions on LGBTQ+ issues, especially following her historic coming out in 1997. DeGeneres is also known for her philanthropic efforts, frequently using her platform to support various charitable causes.

View Collection

Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson is a British actress and activist best known for her role as Hermione Granger in the "Harry Potter" film series, which brought J.K. Rowling's beloved books to life. Beyond her acting career, Watson has made significant contributions to literature by promoting gender equality and women's rights through her work with the United Nations, including the HeForShe campaign. She has also curated and shared book recommendations that highlight feminist literature and diverse voices. Watson graduated from Brown University with a degree in English literature, further emphasizing her dedication to the literary world. Her advocacy and influence have made her a prominent figure in both the entertainment and literary communities.

View Collection

Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin is a bestselling author and happiness expert, best known for her books The Happiness Project and Better Than Before. She explores the science of habits, happiness, and human behavior, helping readers improve their everyday lives. Gretchen’s popular podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, offers practical advice and personal anecdotes to cultivate a more joyful and meaningful life. Her work emphasizes small, daily changes that can lead to long-term well-being. She continues to be a sought-after speaker on topics of happiness and habit formation.

View Collection

Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling is an American actress, comedian, writer, and producer, best known for her work on The Office, where she played Kelly Kapoor and served as a writer and producer. Kaling has since created and starred in her own shows, including The Mindy Project and Never Have I Ever, earning critical acclaim for her unique voice and humor. She is also the author of several best-selling memoirs, where she shares her insights on Hollywood, identity, and personal growth. Kaling is a trailblazer for women of color in entertainment, using her platform to tell diverse and authentic stories. Her contributions to television and film have made her a significant figure in comedy and media.

View Collection

Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.

View Collection

“"I will not forget the lessons I have learned in the jungle, for they will help me lead my kingdom with wisdom and kindness."”

The Story of Babar

By Jean De Brunhoff

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.

Key Points from The Story of Babar

In "The Story of Babar," the plot development intricately weaves the transformation of its titular character, Babar, from a young, grieving elephant to a wise leader of his community. The narrative begins with the tragic loss of Babar's mother at the hands of a hunter, a pivotal moment that not only serves as the catalyst for Babar's journey but also introduces themes of loss and resilience. Babar's subsequent escape to the human world symbolizes a departure from innocence and an immersion into complexity where he is exposed to human sophistication and social manners. For example, his interactions with the old lady who takes him in illustrate his rookie struggles and gradual adaptation to a new way of life, highlighting his determination to grow despite the trauma he endures. Significantly, this journey is not purely a quest for knowledge but also an exploration of identity. Upon returning to the jungle, Babar brings back what he has learned—an amalgamation of human civility and his innate leadership abilities—to govern his fellow elephants. His transformation reflects broader themes of growth, the balance between tradition and modernity, and the responsibility that comes with leadership. Babar's evolution signifies that growth often requires embracing change while staying rooted in one’s origins, illustrating a rich narrative arc that resonates with young readers as a tale of hope and self-progress.

The Story of Babar

Start Listening

What Readers Say About This Book

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Story of Babar

About the Author

Jean De Brunhoff

Book Details

Purchase Options

Similar books you might like →

How to Castrate a Bull

The Big Ship and the Little Digger

Where the Wild Things Are

Animalkind

The Ramona Collection

Because of Winn-Dixie

Lentil

Goodnight Moon Board Book 60th Anniversary Edition

Take your reading experience to the next level

Book Collections you might like →

Meghan Markle's Book Recommendations

Oprah Winfrey's Book Recommendations

Michelle Obama's Book Recommendations

Ellen DeGeneres's Book Recommendations

Emma Watson's Book Recommendations

Gretchen Rubin's Book Recommendations

Mindy Kaling's Book Recommendations

Arianna Huffington's Book Recommendations

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore Our Catalogue

Genres

Genres

Genres

Featured Collections

The Mike & Casey Show

Key Points from The Story of Babar

Frequently Asked Questions