The Conquerors (Paperback)
How can a country without an army conquer anyone? David McKee's profound story and delightful childlike pictures frame a quiet plea for peace. The ruling general of a dominant country conquered all his neighbors in order to rule as much as possible. This plan worked, until there was only one small jovial country left. When the soldiers went there to subjugate it, they were persuaded out of their uniforms, into the taverns, and onto the dance floors. However many times soldiers were sent home and replaced by new recruits, each one was suborned; and the returning military took back with them the traditions and music of the conquered nation. Just who has conquered whom?
David McKee is one of the best-known illustrators of picture books, having created such modern classics as the Elmer series. His first book was published in 1964, and his books are now published in more than 35 languages throughout the world.
"Readers will not fail to note how ridiculous the General and his army appear during their homecoming parade as they erroneously chant, "We are the conquerors." The title's irony and the futility of war are evident in this modern fable." —School Library Journal
"The simple presentation of this serious theme makes a fine conversation opener." —Horn Book
"The simple presentation of this serious theme makes a fine conversation opener." —Horn Book