The text is divided into four sections—an untitled Introduction, Nature and Society, People, and Environment. Four boxes are distributed through the text to highlight some aspects of the area, with 3 or 4 pages of photos at the end. A few highlighted questions are spread through the text.
The clear-cut lines between the colours—mainly the earth colours of ochre, the rich blue of the precious stone lapis lazuli, and cyan, which is the light bluish-green associated with water and the sky—harmonize to create a landscape in the mind that goes beyond division and separation.
Initially published in Bengali as a series titled Itihase Hatekhori (loosely translated as First History Lessons), this effort was born out of the editors’ vision of creating non-standard history books for children. It is a kind of history-writing which falls neither within the bucket of drab,
Tracing the journey of Kohinoor, the exclusive diamond that changed hands over the centuries, the author brings out how British colonization took what was valuable from India and its different people.
The second story, ‘A Tale of Two Oxen’, follows Hira and Moti, two loyal oxen whose unbreakable friendship carries them through hardship. When cruel circumstances separate them from the comfort of home, they endure mistreatment under a harsh master but continue to embody resilience and solidarity. Beyond animal characters, the story speaks powerfully about loyalty, compassion, and the strength found in standing together.
The Thief of Taxila takes readers on a fascinating adventure through the lively, ancient city of Taxila. Mixing history, mystery, and friendship, this book is perfect for young readers who love a good puzzle and want to peek into India’s past.
The story happens a long time ago, during the rule of King Kanishka.