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| Isbn-0763655643 Picture book / Hard Cover age range: 9 - 12 96 pages grade range: Grade 4 and up Author: Jamila Gavin; Illustrator: Amanda Hall |
Synopsis : Come on a journey with renowned storyteller Jamila Gavin as she writes of great floods, legendary romances, and epic battles between good and evil. This new collection of Hindu tales, including the birth of the gods, tales of creation, and the arrival of humans, is illuminated by Amanda Hall’s exquisite artwork, which reflects the influence of both classical and contemporary Indian art.
Being of Indian origin, I love to tell my kids about the culture and tradition and of course, stories of India. The vast plethora of Hindu Gods are an irresistible and endless source of stories to keep the little ones amazed, entertained and educated. This book seemed perfect for the task.
When I first read the stories myself (as I do with anything my kids' read), I was surprised to discover they weren't as I was told them as a child. I went and asked other Indian friends and family members and they agreed with me that some part of the stories were different from what we'd grown up hearing from our parents and grandparents.
The stories go on in a very orderly way, beginning with the creation of the universe, the churning of the seas and so on. All described in an even manner, aptly accompanied by colorful illustrations. The book is perfect, in a clinical sort of way.
Amanda Hall's gorgeous, gorgeous illustrations which are in an undeniable Indian style, are so intricate, detailed and vivid that I spent a long time poring over them. I totally loved them. They're in tune with the narrative and bring it to life.
Unfortunately, when I sat down with my kids and started reading it with them, they lost interest - very quickly. In the past when I've told them similar stories from Indian mythology, my kids have always loved them and asked for more. I couldn't understand why it wasn't happening with this book. I tried showing them the illustrations, but again, gorgeous though they are, they just didn't hold my kids' interest.
That's when I realized, I was looking at a book that's meant for kids (older kids, but kids nonetheless) but which has been written and illustrated in a manner more suited to adults.
Like I said before, the narrative is very clinical, very logical. Indian gods and goddesses are anything but logical or unemotional. They thrive in chaos and that kind of hectic energized energy that gives a boost to the soul is just not conveyed by the narrative. Also kids like stories that they can relate to or even better, enjoy in a larger-than-life kind of way. This book does not do that. Same with the detailed illustrations. They're beautiful but not approachable, and hence do not appeal to kids.
Overall, I'm sad to say this book disappoints. I wouldn't recommend it.
Disclosure - This product was received for review consideration. The synopsis/description was taken from Amazon or the back of the book.
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3 comments:
This is so cool!
It would be illogical to call these stories Mythological.
Firstly, the word mythology comes from the word "Mythya or Mithya" from Sanskrit which means a lie or deception. Hence from the beginning you are adding some thing very wrongful to begin with.
It has been an Abrahmic ploy to warp history , and people keep using the subtle manipulation which will destroy the foundations of Vedic civilization.
Its best you become more aware of the destruction happening around you.
Augadha
Great sharing thanks a lot.
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