Animal Tales from India
#2 of 3 in Nosy Crow Classics Series
What’s inside...
A stunningly illustrated gift book of ancient Indian fables, retold by bestselling poet Nikita Gill. The stories of the Panchatantra have been read aloud and shared for thousands of years, kept alive by generation after generation of storytellers. In this captivating collection of ten animal tales, reimagined with warmth and wit by Nikita Gill, you'll meet mighty elephants and courageous mice, cunning crocodiles and clever monkeys, talkative tortoises and little lapwing birds. Discover a world of wonder, wisdom and friendship, of helping others, speaking out and finding courage. With vibrant, irresistible color artwork by Chaaya Prabhat on every page, and sumptuous high-end finishes, including a jacket, foiled cloth binding and a ribbon marker, this is a timeless gift book for every child to enjoy and treasure.
Discussion points
What do you think the animals might have felt during their adventures? Can you relate to any of their emotions?
Which animal story was your favorite and why?
How do you think the tales in the book show the importance of friendship and courage?
If you could be any animal from the book, which one would you choose and what adventure would you go on?
What lessons can we learn from the animals' experiences and apply in our own lives?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to imagine themselves in the world of the story by asking them which animal they would like to be. Validate their feelings and thoughts as they relate to the characters and situations in the book. Highlight the morals and lessons from the stories to connect the tales to real-life scenarios. Use expressive read-aloud techniques to make the stories come alive. Discuss the cultural aspects of India where these tales originated, fostering an appreciation for diverse traditions and ways of life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Empathy and Understanding
Explanation: Through richly woven tales featuring diverse animals from the Indian subcontinent, children grasp the importance of understanding others' feelings and perspectives.
Real-World Application: This lesson aids children in building stronger relationships with their peers by encouraging them to be considerate and empathetic towards others in school and at play.
Example Lesson: Courage and Bravery
Explanation: Characters in these stories often face challenges or dangers, demonstrating the value of bravery in overcoming fears and obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children learn to face their personal challenges, like trying new activities or standing up for themselves or others, with courage.
Example Lesson: Importance of Teamwork
Explanation: Several stories highlight animals working together to solve problems, teaching the necessity of cooperation and teamwork.
Real-World Application: This promotes collaborative skills among children, encouraging them to participate in team activities and value working collectively towards common goals.
Example Lesson: Respect for Nature
Explanation: The setting and characters emphasize a connection to nature and the need to respect our environment.
Real-World Application: Children learn to appreciate and care for their natural surroundings, fostering environmentally responsible behaviors from a young age.
Example Lesson: Perseverance
Explanation: Through various trials faced by the characters, the stories champion the idea of never giving up despite difficulties.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to persist in their efforts whether it be in academics, sports, or personal hobbies, understanding that dedication leads to success.