READ AND GROW

Book Review 

Famous Five Series 

by Enid Blyton

The Famous Five series is a captivating read, perfect for banishing boredom. While it primarily is aimed at kids, adventurous adults can also find enjoyment in its pages, making it suitable for a broad age range of 9-14. I wholeheartedly recommend this series for its gripping narrative, making it an absolute page-turner.

My favourite character, Tim the Dog, steals the spotlight with his kindness and sharp instincts, serving as a reliable guide to the children. Anne, with her shy demeanour, adds a unique dynamic to the group, contributing significantly to the storyline. The adventures, emotions, diverse characters and encounters along the way make this series a must-read, earning it a brilliant 10/10 in my book.

Beyond the excitement, the Famous Five series plays a constructive role in one's life with its various chapters. The overarching theme of getting along resonates well, making it a valuable read. What sets these books apart is their contribution to advocating women's rights, a commendable feat. Enid Blyton's engaging writing style and imaginative prowess, evident from a young age, make her books truly special. Overall, I am enamoured with this series, deeming it worthy of receiving accolades akin to winning an Oscar. Dive into the world of the Famous Five for an immersive experience that goes beyond mere storytelling.

Yashita Bharadwaj

V A

BOOK REVIEW

 RENARD ET LA CHÈVRE

LE RENARD ET LA CHÈVRE is an English Aesop Fable written in French.

"The Fox and the Goat" is a delightful children's book that masterfully weaves the tale of a crafty fox and a trusting goat. Penned by an anonymous author, this fable-like narrative imparts vital life lessons in a manner that is both simple and engaging. As the story unfolds, it becomes clear that it transcends age, providing enjoyment for both children and adults alike.

The book's strength lies not only in its entertaining plot but also in its ability to convey profound messages. Themes of teamwork, the importance of heeding parental advice, the perils of blind trust, the value of mutual assistance, the significance of fulfilling responsibilities and the necessity of holding wrongdoers accountable are skillfully interwoven into the narrative.

Ashita Srivastava

V C

Book Review 

The Little Prince

The Little Prince, written by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, captivates from the very beginning with its incredible narrative. The concept and characters of the book are truly appealing. The story unfolds around a pilot who crashes in the vast Sahara Desert (Africa) and encounters a little prince from Asteroid B-612. The little prince narrates his year-long journey, sharing insights about the diverse individuals he meets, including a King, a businessman, a snake and a fox. Each encounter provides a unique and enriching experience. The author beautifully conveys the idea that there is beauty in the depth of everything and we only need to discover it, echoing the profound words: "One sees only with the heart. What is essential is invisible to the eye."

The only drawback I found was the mother's behaviour towards the little girl. I believe she could have been portrayed as more caring.

This story is a must-read as it imparts a profound moral lesson. It emphasizes the importance of preserving one's innocence amid life's busyness. I rate this book 4.5 out of 5 stars.

Mohit Manoj

V B

Book Review 

The Picture of Dorian Grey 

by Oscar Wilde

Oscar Wilde's ‘The Picture of Dorian Grey’ is a captivating exploration of morals, wild desires and attachments. Displayed in the world of nineteenth-century England, the novel revolves around the life of Dorian Grey, a handsome young man with an impossibly charming face and spirit. 

Wilde's writing is a masterpiece with incognito elegance. Every line is painted with aesthetic ideals and presented as a beautiful picture. It has the skilful strokes of the duality of the human mind and its constant race for perfection.

Basil Hallward obsessively paints Dorian as he sits in his studio, listening to the well-phrased epigrams of Lord Henry. Influenced by the talk of youth and beauty, Dorian becomes jealous of his portrait and wishes it would bear the scars of his passing youth. 

One of the most captivating aspects of the novel is the character development of Dorian Grey himself. As a pure and innocent gentleman, he descends into the devil, engaging in scandals, ultimately leading to his downfall. The ageing of his portrait serves as a haunting metaphor for the corruption of his soul.

The novel's themes have the same essence as when it was first published in 1890. Its exploration of dissociation of values, mutual understanding, attachment to constantness and the consequences of moral corruption remain relevant in our modern world obsessed with youth and beauty.

The Picture of Dorian Grey is not merely a classic example of Gothic fiction but also a piece of art in itself. It is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers with its genuine literature about human emotions. Wilde's novel serves as a reminder that beauty and pleasure without thought for morality can lead to tragic consequences.

Parmi Pazare

VIII B

Book Review 

Alexandar

Alexander: Conqueror of Worlds and the Tapestry of Ancient India 

Step into the pages of history with the gripping tale of 'Alexander,' a book that not only captivates minds but also unveils the fascinating connection between ancient India and the vast Persian Empire. This narrative invites its readers on an epic journey through time, where they can witness the rise and conquests of one of the world's greatest leaders. This book skillfully brings to life the exploits of Alexander the Great, a name that echoes through the annals of history. As I delved into the vivid descriptions of battles, strategies and awe-inspiring landscapes, I found myself on the edge of my seat, eagerly turning the pages to discover the next chapter of this incredible story.

What makes this book particularly intriguing for young minds is its ability to connect the dots between Alexander's conquests and the historical tapestry of ancient India. The narrative sheds light on the fact that many parts of Hindustan were once integral components of the Persian Empire, fostering a sense of curiosity about the shared history between these distant lands. For young readers in India, 'Alexander' serves as a portal to a bygone era when the fates of nations were shaped by charismatic leaders and their epic quests. The importance of studying this book lies not just in the exploration of a foreign conqueror's journey but also in understanding the interconnectedness of civilisations that shaped the world we know today. Navigating through the pages of 'Alexander' will help in gaining valuable insights into the cultural exchange, trade and historical ties that bound the Indian subcontinent with the Persian Empire. The author skillfully weaves in tales of diverse cultures and traditions, sparking a sense of pride and curiosity among Indian readers about their rich heritage.

I would like to end by mentioning that 'Alexander' is not just a story of conquests; it's a key to unlocking the mysteries of a shared past that connects India to the far reaches of the ancient world. I recommend all my students to embark on this historical adventure so that they can discover the fascinating threads that weave together the story of Alexander and the legacy he left on the Indian subcontinent. This book is not just a captivating read; it's a journey back in time that will leave young minds inspired and hungry for more knowledge about the incredible history of our world.

Peenaz Chinoy

English Educator