Akbar (Puffin Lives): The Mighty Emperor
#1 in Puffin Lives Series
What’s inside...
The book narrates the life story of Prince Akbar, who was born in medieval India and became a renowned emperor, warrior, statesman, and thinker. Famous for his inclusive vision in literature, architecture, art, and religion, Akbar's reign is portrayed through his challenging childhood, the consolidation of his empire, and the vibrant court life featuring strong women and diverse characters. Alongside, the book enriches the narrative with vignettes about the Mughal empire and the 16th-century world, offering a comprehensive look at one of history's most remarkable rulers. Memory Rose into Threshold Speech compiles the first four books of Paul Celan, a major post-World War II German-language poet. Celan's work, characterized by surrealistic imagery and evolving into a tight, polysemic language, reflects his efforts to create a new world and language post-Holocaust. This bilingual edition by Pierre Joris includes translations, an introduction, and extensive commentary, showcasing Celan's poetic journey from 1952 to 1963.
Character compass
Akbar
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Akbar a great leader?
How did Akbar's decisions impact the people in his empire?
Can you think of a time when Akbar showed kindness or fairness? How did that make a difference?
Why do you think it's important to learn about historical figures like Akbar?
What would you have done differently if you were Akbar?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about the leadership qualities displayed by Akbar, discussing which traits they believe are important for leaders today.
Discuss the historical context of Akbar's reign, linking it to the modern world to make it more relatable.
Ask your child how they would feel if they were a citizen during Akbar’s rule, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of historical events.
Highlight Akbar's policies of religious tolerance and discuss their relevance in today’s world.
After discussing a specific decision Akbar made, ask your child how they might have handled the situation, encouraging problem-solving skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Leadership and Decision Making
Explanation: The story of Akbar showcases his ability to make informed decisions and lead a vast empire effectively, demonstrating qualities like wisdom and fairness.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to make thoughtful decisions and lead group projects or discussions at school, embodying fairness and respect.
Example Lesson: Cultural Diversity and Respect
Explanation: Akbar's court was known for its cultural diversity, promoting a message of respect and acceptance toward different cultures and religions.
Real-World Application: This lesson can help children appreciate the diverse cultural backgrounds of their classmates, promoting inclusivity and respect in their daily interactions.
Example Lesson: The Importance of Education and Learning
Explanation: The book highlights how Akbar, despite his initial lack of formal education, deeply valued learning and surrounded himself with knowledgeable advisors.
Real-World Application: Children will be inspired to value their education, seek knowledge actively, and understand that learning is a lifelong process.
Example Lesson: Problem Solving and Innovation
Explanation: The book illustrates Akbar’s ability to solve state problems and innovate administrative processes, which contributed to the prosperity of his empire.
Real-World Application: Kids can apply this lesson by developing problem-solving skills in academics and personal challenges, fostering innovation and creative thinking.