The artist of this illustrated typescript is unknown; it is not in the hand of either of the authors of the Babar series, Jean or Laurent de Brunhoff. It is believed to have been prepared for a BBC production of Jean de Brunhoff's book "Babar en famille" (translated as "Babar at Home" in England and "Babar and His Children" in the United States). It has been suggested that this illustrated typescript was prepared for a production for the BBC children's series "Blue Peter," but the BBC archives does not have a record of a production of "Babar at Home" on that television show. The story was read by Maurice Roeves on the BBC series "Jackanory" on May 28, 1975, but this show did not have a format that would have accomodated an illustrated story such as this one.

Babar and his family enjoy various activites during each season.

King of the Elephants Babar and his wife Celeste welcome new baby Isabelle.

This third title about Babar and his family follows the elephants as they build a magnificent city: Celesteville. Life is peaceful and contented, everyone has a job to do, and celebrations are frequent. But one fateful day a snake bites the Old Lady and Babar fears that he may lose his oldest friend. Illus. in full color by the author.

If you love elephants, you will love Babar and Celeste," writes A. A. Milne, author of Winnie-the-Pooh, in his preface to The Story of Babar. "And if you have never loved elephants, you will love them now." After his mother is killed by a hunter, Babar avoids capture by escaping to the city, where he is befriended by the kindly Old Lady. He becomes educated and cultured and, upon his return to the great forest, is crowned King of the Elephants. Jean de Brunhoff's tales of Babar have charmed readers around the world for 80 years. His stories have followed the king of the elephants as he builds a city, founds a family and even meets Father Christmas. Tested by difficult trials - from snakes to fire to runaway prams - he always comes out on top, with the help of patience, determination and, on one memorable occasion, a flight of winged elephants. One of the most iconic series of animal books in history, Babar has become a household name both as a character in children's books and on TV. Beautifully illustrated, this edition is an ideal gift for children aged 3 and up.

The arrival of new baby Isabelle creates much excitement in Barbar's family, particularly after she learns to walk and gets lost in the mountains.