ASHOKA THE FIERCE

When Prince Ashoka was born, few would have predicted that he would go on to conquer almost the entirety of the Indian subcontinent.

In addition to having physical attributes that were not considered befitting a king—such as dark, patchy skin and a “pudgy” body—Ashoka had a fierce, unpredictable temper. Knowing that he was considered a disappointment, Ashoka focused on his studies, hoping to earn his father’s affection. No matter how hard he worked, though, he never felt loved or accepted by family and friends. But when he grew older and his father died, a wise minister recognized Ashoka’s promise and found a way to crown him king. With his newfound power, Ashoka channeled his anger into conquering neighboring kingdoms—something his gentle and loving wife, Asandamitra, did not condone. After a particularly bloody battle, Ashoka came to regret the destruction he had enabled and vowed to dedicate his life to Buddhism. On the advice of a Buddhist monk, he traveled his kingdom learning its teachings. The journey changed him into a ruler so benevolent that his people stopped calling him Ashoka the Fierce and started calling him Ashoka the Great. This lushly illustrated picture book cleverly alternates between dark and light palettes to reflect Ashoka’s transformation. The text is clear, straightforward, and compelling, emphasizing Ashoka’s humanity and fragility in child-friendly language. (This book was reviewed digitally.)

A compelling treatment of the life of an important South Asian ruler and religious leader.