A book becomes compelling when it transforms raw, realistic moments into sources of fascination. Raya’s character, although a child, is still shown as mature and understanding and these traits make her a deeply endearing character. Her observing nature is a catalyst for learning, which develops understanding of not only her surroundings,
Singh, subtly but definitively, challenges gender roles and stereotypes through the characters in the book. The father is scared of lizards, while the mother is not. It brings in the idea to children that men, even grown men, are allowed to be afraid. Later in the book, Diya shares her experiences with her bus driver, Rani, and her friend, Farah. By choosing to portray a woman bus driver, Singh has again broken the stereotypical notion of male bus drivers.
After reflection comes discovery with the section on ‘Fun Facts about Cats’, where imagination meets real-world learning. Did you know cats sleep almost two-thirds of the day; can leap six times their body height, or pick up scents spanning the width of a football field? These informative tidbits bring the poem to life
This enjoyable book holds the reader’s attention right through to the end and will amuse him or her with all the loud and sometimes strange animal sounds, as they try to shake Bear out of her deep sleep. The expressive and entertaining illustrations complement the text effectively.
Each verse is preceded by a 100-150-word description where Zai has focused on some well-known character traits, distinctive or curious behaviour that may seem whimsical or odd to the observer, and the reason for the same, helping to foster love for both poetry and the natural world.
Alankrita Amaya has written the story in Hindi. This story is about a character named Champu and her journey to the planets. Distinguishing characteristics of each planet have been woven into the story—an easy and engaging way to learn about planetary facts!