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The Jungle Book

Overview

Three-Sentence Summary

Extended Summary

"The Jungle Book" is a timeless classic written by Rudyard Kipling in 1894. The book comprises seven short stories, many revolving around Mowgli, an orphaned boy raised by wolves in the Indian jungle. Guided by his animal mentors Baloo the bear and Bagheera the black panther, Mowgli learns to abide by the Laws of the Jungle which governs animal society.

While growing up, Mowgli’s existence faces constant threat from Shere Khan, a man-eating tiger who hates him deeply for being a human yet living amongst animals. In addition to dealing with this danger, Mowgli often grapples with his dual identity – being part human and part beast. His journey depicts the struggle for acceptance and belonging.

Other stories in "The Jungle Book" include "Rikki-Tikki-Tavi", a tale about a brave mongoose who protects his human family from two lethal cobras; "Toomai of the Elephants", which tells about a young elephant-handler; and "Her Majesty’s Servants", detailing conversations among various animals serving in British India's military.

These narratives use anthropomorphic characters to relay strong moral messages and life lessons about courage, friendship, loyalty, and respect for laws and customs.

Key Points

  1. The Laws of the Jungle: Kipling's book emphasizes the importance of laws and codes of conduct in maintaining order and harmony, even in the wild.
  2. Identity and Belonging: Mowgli's story reflects the struggle to find one's identity and place in society amidst differences.
  3. Anthropomorphic Characters: Kipling uses anthropomorphism, attributing human traits to animals, as a narrative tool to explore complex themes.
  4. Moral Lessons: Each story imparts moral lessons about bravery, loyalty, and respect for authority.

Who Should Read

"The Jungle Book" is a must-read for anyone who enjoys adventure tales and stories with strong moral undertones. Fans of classic literature, especially those interested in anthropomorphic narratives, will find it engaging. The book also appeals to readers who appreciate exploration of themes such as identity, law and order, and societal norms.

About the Author

Rudyard Kipling was an English writer famous for his works of fiction including "The Jungle Book", "Kim", and "Just So Stories". He was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1907. His writings often reflect his experiences living in British India.

Further Reading