The Real Story of Stone Soup

By: Ying Chang Compestine

Narrated by: A. C. Fellner

A stingy fisherman always makes his three young helpers do all his work. One day he scolds the “lazy boys” for forgetting to provide lunch. “Don’t worry,” they say. “We can make stone soup.” The boys dig a hole and fill it with water and “flavored” stones. They trick the fisherman into making bowls and chopsticks, and fetching salt and sesame oil. While he’s busy, they stir in bird eggs, add wild vegetables, and slip fish into the soup. By the time the old man returns, they have a feast fit for a king. To this day, “Egg Drop Stone Soup” is a traditional dish in southeast China. A recipe is included.

Critic reviews

“A natural choice for folktale units.”—Booklist

“Jorisch’s bright watercolors cleverly extend the story, which, with dashes of humor and delightfulclassroom extensions, should satisfy kids and teachers alike.”—Kirkus Reviews