A curious little rabbit discovers a high stone wall and is intrigued by a beautiful peacock who tells him about a magical garden on the other side. The peacock describes a place filled with a fountain that plays enchanting music and flowers that sing. Eager to experience this wonder, the rabbit searches for a way in and eventually finds a gate adorned with intricate carvings. He squeezes through and arrives at the garden, where he is mesmerized by the fountain's sparkling water, which appears like precious gems due to the sunlight. The rabbit requests a tune, and the fountain plays a sweet melody while the peacock displays his vibrant tail. The flowers join in, singing harmoniously. However, when the peacock attempts to sing, the rabbit is taken aback by the unpleasant sounds, realizing that beauty in appearance does not guarantee beauty in voice. Disturbed by the cacophony, the rabbit quickly hops away, escaping the peacock's dreadful singing. The story highlights themes of curiosity, the allure of beauty, and the contrast between appearance and reality.
By David Cory · First published 1980 · Genre: Children's Literature, Adventure, Fantasy