The Jungle Book Stories
#1 in The Jungle Book Series
on Goodreads (128,337)
What’s inside...
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a clever mongoose who is determined to protect the human family he lives with. What happens when Nag, the cobra, shows up in the garden with evil plans on his mind? Mugger of Mugger-Ghaut has lived an exciting life and tells grand stories to Jackal and Adjutant Crane, little knowing that the greatest threat is lurking close by in the form of the White Man. Kotick is an unusual seal. Not only is his fur white, but he is also filled with curiosity and a sense of adventure. After he witnesses the brutal killing of seals by humans, he decides to find a place where no human can reach. And so begins his search through the icy waters of the Arctic. Can he find such a place and claim the leadership of his pack of seals? Elephants who dance, camels that talk, tailor birds with louder voices than brains, the desolation of an Arctic winter, high tales of cunning and bravery--all of these come alive in the brilliance of Rudyard Kipling's writing. Go wild with this collection of stories on and about animals from the classic Jungle Book, now with a wonderful introduction by Ranjit Lal.
Discussion points
How do you think Mowgli feels being different from the animals in the jungle? Can you relate to his feelings?
What lessons do you think Baloo and Bagheera are trying to teach Mowgli about the jungle? Why are these lessons important?
If you were in the jungle like Mowgli, which animal would you want to be your guide and why?
How do the different animals in the jungle help Mowgli in their unique ways? What does this tell us about teamwork and diversity?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts on Mowgli's adventures and the decisions he makes. This helps build empathy and understanding.
Discuss the roles of various animals in the story to teach values like wisdom, courage, and friendship. Ask your child what they admire about characters like Baloo or Bagheera.
Use the story’s setting to spark curiosity about wildlife, ecosystems, and the importance of respecting nature.
Relate the jungle’s challenges to everyday challenges your child might face. This can provide insights and strategies for overcoming difficulties.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of friendship and trust
Explanation: In 'The Jungle Book,' Mowgli builds significant connections with animals like Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther, who guide and protect him. This theme is highlighted through their continuous support and mutual trust which helps Mowgli survive in the jungle.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and nurture friendships, understanding how trust and cooperation can help them navigate challenges in their daily lives.
Example Lesson: Understanding and respecting differences
Explanation: Mowgli, being a human child in an animal environment, represents differences, yet he is accepted and loved. This teaches children about inclusivity and learning to respect and embrace differences among people in their community.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be inclusive and respect peers who may be different from them, promoting social harmony and understanding in diverse settings.
Example Lesson: Learning from experiences and mistakes
Explanation: As Mowgli grows up, he encounters various challenges and learns from them, which aids his survival and personal growth. His adaptability and learning curve show how experiences shape one’s abilities and wisdom.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to view challenges as learning opportunities, understanding that mistakes are valuable experiences that foster growth and resilience.
Example Lesson: Courage and self-discovery
Explanation: Throughout the stories, Mowgli must confront dangerous situations and make tough decisions. His journey is not only about survival but also about discovering his identity and finding his place in the world.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to face their fears, make decisions confidently, and embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and personal development.
Example Lesson: The significance of laws and rules
Explanation: The animal characters in the book live by the 'Law of the Jungle,' which is a set of rules that ensures order and peace among diverse species. Mowgli learns to understand and respect these laws as crucial for coexistence.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children about the importance of following rules and laws to maintain harmony and order in their lives and the wider community.