In Veggie Garden, the vegetables are happy as can be -- until there is a drought and the veggies are desperate for water and someone to give them a sense of security. Eggplant Empire is an allegorical story about an eggplant named Greg that becomes the dictator of a vegetable garden. Greg takes advantage of the drought occurring in Veggie Garden, blames others, and delivers convincing speeches about Veggie pride and Veggie nationalism. Many of the tactics that Greg uses to gain the support of the other vegetables and to maintain power are analogous to the general tactics that we have seen throughout history from infamous dictators. The purpose of this story is to teach children about how dictators come into power through an allegorical story that is easier for them to comprehend. Many lessons can be learned from Eggplant Empire, like the consequences of greediness and lying, and it can help facilitate a conversation about history and dictatorships. With unique characters and catchy rhymes, Eggplant Empire is a must-have on your bookshelf!
