By Demi
Ping is exceptionally good at growing flowers. In this Chinese folktale, when the aging Emperor decides to find his successor (his replacement), he holds a contest. The Emperor gives every child a seed, and says that “Whoever can show me their best in a year’s time will succeed me to the throne.” After a whole year, the other children have flowers they’ve grown to show to the Emperor, but Ping has no flower to show. He cannot get his seed to sprout. What will happen when he presents his empty pot to the Emperor?
QUESTIONS
It seems like all the children lied to the Emperor, except Ping of course.
All the children are determined to show the Emperor their best.
The Emperor is looking his successor, but not just anyone. He wants someone with particular qualities.
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