The Poppy Seeds

When young Pablo is given some poppy seeds, he dreams of spreading color and beauty throughout his dusty Mexican village. Daring to enter Old Antonio’s walled yard to plant the seeds, he is chased away with angry words and a stick. The stingy old man thinks Pablo has come to steal his precious spring water.

Poor Pablo becomes sick from staying too long in the hot sun and cannot leave his bed. Meanwhile, the seeds he dropped by the spring have grown into beautiful red poppies. Will the poppies soften Old Antonio’s hard heart and make him realize the boy wasn’t after his water after all.

Clyde Robert Bulla’s name is a by-word in beginning-reading circles. This delightful tale of a simple village boy with a generous spirit is sure to enchant young listeners.

The New York Times  applauds “Clyde Robert Bulla’s mastery of the fine tale told in simple language …”