The Tale of Jolly Robin

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28293

Title

The Tale of Jolly Robin

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Arthur Scott Bailey's charming children's classic follows Jolly Robin, a spirited bird who learns to fly, discovers the joy of laughter, and navigates the wide world. With whimsical illustrations and gentle humor, this tale offers timeless lessons on friendship, curiosity, and the wonders of nature for young readers.

Summary up to 500 words

In Arthur Scott Bailey's *The Tale of Jolly Robin*, a charming narrative for young readers, the story follows the life of a spirited young robin named Jolly, born in Farmer Green's apple tree. Initially driven by a hunger for food, particularly angleworms, Jolly's early days are spent in a cozy nest with his siblings. His development accelerates when his father encourages him to leave the safety of the nest to learn flight. A playful scare involving a cat, which turns out to be a trick by his father, finally grants Jolly the confidence to fly, earning him his name for his hearty, merriment-filled laughter. As Jolly explores the "wide, wide world," he learns vital lessons about community and safety in numbers, discovering that a mob of robins can easily drive away bullies like the mischievous Jasper Jay. He also learns the importance of following his father's lead during migration, ensuring he does not lose his way on his first long journey to the South. During this time, Jolly grows physically, his waistcoat turning red from eating mountain ash berries, and he seeks purpose by consulting Jimmy Rabbit. The rabbit advises Jolly to make his natural talent for laughing his profession, leading Jolly to attempt hiring the solemn Mr. Crow. This quest leads to a series of comical misunderstandings. Jolly encounters a mysterious "four-armed man" in the orchard, who is actually Farmer Green's hired man using an old neck-yoke to carry milk pails—a concept Jolly, being young, has never heard of. The narrative also introduces other woodland characters, including a shy Hermit Thrush who sings sad songs in the swamp and a Willie Whip-poor-will whose nocturnal calls often disturb Jolly. Jolly attempts to teach the Whip-poor-will a cheerful new song, but the nightjar's sleepiness and strange habits frustrate him. The story concludes with Jolly reflecting on his adventures. He realizes that while his laughter is his greatest trait, responsibility, home, and the bonds of community are equally important. Through these encounters with various animals and human-like figures, Jolly matures from a nestling into a confident bird who understands the balance between humor and duty.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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data/epubs/pg28293.epub

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Categories

• Fiction
• Robins