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Reading can be monotonous especially if the book lacks the bright and vibrant illustrations. It is these illustrations that trigger the wheels of the mind to get started and imagine a story just as effortlessly as one would watch a movie. I belong to a generation where reading meant extensive feeding on the Jataka tales, the Panchatantra and the good old Chandamamas and Tinkle. The next level from here included reading Roald Dahl, Enid Blyton and the likes. Then came the era of magic and wizardry and Harry Potter became a hot favourite of the entire generation. Soon there were books like Eragon which fuelled the imagination that the Harry Potter series had started.
All through, one thing didn’t change and that was the joy that reading got along. The books, the stories, the smell of the fresh pages and the excitement to know how the story shaped has not changed much. To this day, these books are read with the same enthusiasm and zest.
Here goes my Top 5 list
1. The Panchatantra, The Jataka tales: These books will always stay on the top spot because they were and still are the ones responsible for arousing the curiosity in a child’s mind.
2. Tinkle magazine: With each character so distinct in memory, this one definitely needs a mention. Be it Shikari Shambu or Suppandi, their fame and name are both unmatched and unforgettable.
3. The Giving Tree: This book by Shel Silverstein has an important lesson to teach. Based on the story of a boy and his love for a tree is put up in the most lucid and touching style. While the book talks about the tree and the boy during his growing years and how the tree stump proves to be useful to the boy, now an old man, even after it is cut down.
4. How the Grinch stole Christmas: This heart warming tale by the Dr Seuss is one of my all time favourites. The Grinch and his effort to steal Christmas takes a setback when he realises that happiness comes from sharing and caring. With these two in tow celebrations are always possible even without grandeur. This book celebrates the true spirit of Christmas with simplicity.
5. Everyone Poops: This book by Taro Gomi and Amanda Mayer Stinchecum is a humorous, yet a scientific approach to learning the natural processes. A part of the ‘My Body Science Series’, this book talks about poop and its importance and comparison to other living creatures in a humorous way. One of the most ideal books for children getting their potty training.
What are your favourite books?