Author Archives: Thebookreviewindia

In all these stories, the tiger plays an important role— a cub aspiring to be a man-eater in Ranjit Lal’s ‘I want to be a Man-eater’, to a ferocious tiger stuck in a typhoon in a cattle eater’s paradise in ‘Tiger in a Typhoon’ by Hugh Allen; Prathibha Nandakumar’s mighty Tigress brings out her claw when asked a question and goes on to scratch her head! Protective Padmini who charges at the wildlife photographer in Valmik Thapar’s story is sure to give shivers down your spine

The board of each page is skilfully designed to present smooth little pieces moving in and out of slits. Some pieces are elegantly pulled up from the slits; some pieces are effortlessly slid round and round and round in their slits

Names and illustrations of various animals have been used just to increase the fun element. If one reads the poem with the expectation of teaching children about animals or that it will contain some researched scientific facts or information

The variety of activities presented in the book demonstrates the different frameworks and approaches a teacher can use to ensure engagement and participation, while also providing opportunities for students to reflect and solve multiple problems at their own learning levels.

There is so much to see everywhere! The spreads are detailed with uniquely portrayed characters. Some were playing a sitar, some painting eggs, or sipping tea. Simple forms with bold lines and textures give a rugged warmth, inviting one to linger on the pages.

All these stories look at life closely and reflect that with honesty. The writers are children who are mature storytellers of the experiences of their lives.

The illustration where the baby elephant sleeps on its mother’s stomach with its trunk folded gives you a complete experience of the mother’s hugeness and the baby’s total carefreeness. This illustration of affection and trust is the soul of the book. Such vivid and impactful illustrations are rarely seen.

In this story, the weekly bazaar is five kilometres from the village, and the way is through a dense jungle. The route is difficult and even includes a river that can flood and the threat of wild animals, yet the child goes. It’s even possible that going to the market or returning home from the market might cost one’s life. The sellers and shopkeepers arrange their wares on the ground in the weekly market and try to wind up their sales before the evening sets in.

The illustrations are somewhat uneven but many capture well the close relationship between the little girl and the Kabuliwallah.

Eamonn O’Boyle’s illustrations add a wonderful layer to the story, bringing the vibrant and whimsical world of Minky and Rama to life. The visuals perfectly capture the fun and wonder of their journey, making the book even more engaging and enjoyable.

Overall, Baloo’s Big Win is a powerful tale of perseverance, passion, and social change. It not only emphasizes the importance of following one’s dreams but also addresses a critical social issue that remains relevant today. This book is bound to inspire young readers to chase their aspirations

The Hero Cake as a prize, initially presented as a mysterious reward, ends up being somewhat unconvincing. While this twist adds surprise, it may not fully satisfy readers who were expecting a more symbolic conclusion, especially in light of the uplifting identity revelation that precedes the end.

The storytelling and illustrations are simple and straightforward. The language even feels rudimentary at places, lacking polish.

The positive aspect of this story is that the individuals who raise the rooster accept its gender and behaviour. Children’s reaction to it provides many opportunities to discuss this story with them. Accepting someone as they are is a challenge, but it’s not impossible.

The illustrations by Fahad Faizal add another layer to the narrative, vividly bringing the story to life. The gray colour palette reflects the oppressive atmosphere of fear and dullness in the school, which is sharply contrasted by the bright colours that appear when Laila enters the scene.

This is an important book for children to read, to perhaps start to understand that not all of us are the same, and that sometimes some of us cannot confidently express ourselves.

In both stories, the illustrations do not add anything much. In two instances, they even contradict the description–in the first story, the boy is described as having the sheer standing but is shown sitting on the mat; candles are shown instead of the clay diyas as described in the text.

Ruskin Bond’s writing, as usual, has clarity of expression and does not waste a single word. It flows steadily like a clear mountain stream, without splashing water on the sides. This quality has been consistent throughout his writings which helps make an instant connect with the reader.

The text simply flows on the colourful pages assuming the enchanting green of the forests. It seems like moving from one space to another inside the forest, as we turn the pages. The illustrations bear the tones of colourful Nature which would grip the reader prompting him to go through each picture studiously.

I can’t wait to delve into the stories. How many of us like bitter gourd? Very few! But we would like to know why the gourd happens to be bitter. Out pops a story from grandpa’s bag to tell us why. This unusual story tells us through the interaction of Shankar the farmer and a mermaid what happens if we do not cultivate politeness, humility and respect for others.