In 1931, Jean de Brunhoff introduced Babar in Histoire de Babar, and Babar enjoyed immediate success. In 1933, A. A. Milne introduced an English-language version, The Story of Babar, in Britain and the United States.
Before his death in 1937, Jean de Brunhoff published six more stories. His son Laurent de Brunhoff, also a writer and illustrator, carried on the series from 1946, beginning with Babar et Le Coquin d'Arthur (Babar's Cousin: That Rascal Arthur), followed up with many additional titles. More than fifty years later, he takes children on a tour around the world with Babar's family.
Our favorite elephant family visits a number of countries around the globe. First stop is Italy where they learn to say, "Buon Giorno! Hello!" After that, it's off to Germany, Spain (where they learn to flamenco dance!), Russia, India, Japan and Thailand (for snorkeling). Then Mexico, the Southwest United States, Egypt, Antarctica, and of course, France (just in time for a fashion show!).
In this adventurous addition to the Babar series, children are introduced to an international array of cities, customs and languages as they learn to say "hello" in each new country. Babar's World Tour is enjoyable and entertaining for armchair travelers of all ages.
Did you find this review helpful?