#586 - The Guardians of the Forest
by Priyadarshini Panchapakesan and illustrated by Ashlin Sara Paul
“The Guardians of the Forest” by Priyadarshini Panchapakesan and illustrated by Ashlin Sara Paul. Published by Paper Lantern Books. A captivating story of a group of friends who find themselves in the thick of an adventure in the forest that has captured their imagination for a long time.
The story is set in the hills known as “Neelam Malai” which literally translates to the Blue Mountains. The narrator’s home as well as school were on the outskirts of a town there. It was not in the city or completely in the wild either. He recounts life being pretty normal until a fateful day when things changed making him perceive the world differently from thereon. The way he imagined and dreamed changed. It is about this particular day that the story is about.
Though it started off as a normal day, the narrator and five of his classmates found themselves getting drawn into the heart of the forest next to their school. They came across a lost cat. The address of a cottage in the forest was found in a locket tied to its neck. They embarked on an unexpected and compelling adventure to take the cat back to its home. The forest had captivated their imagination for a long time. They had been intrigued by the tales of mysterious shadows which seemed to lurk there. What were they going to find out about the shadows that they only heard about? Would their efforts be enough to face the challenges that threatened the woods? Read the engrossing book that highlights how we can all take part in preserving our natural world.
Through the story, the author showcases a relevant issue that plagues most of the places frequented by tourists. Littering. Unfortunately this is something that we have come across personally even in forested areas. My ten and a half year old son and I could therefore relate well to the theme of the book. What is wonderful however, is the way the simple story serves as a powerful reminder of how we can collectively be the guardians of the forests and help in their preservation. Without being preachy, the message that we all have a responsibility towards our natural world comes across in a beautiful manner. The story fills us with hope that it is not too late yet and we all can do our bit to protect the forests. The story has its share of friendships, fun and delight that will resonate well with school going children. With regard to the illustrations, we felt that their placement could have been better rather than at the end of each chapter.
Recommended Age
The book is apt for children aged 8 and above.
Disclaimer - We received this book from the author, Priyadarshini Panchapakesan, for review. Thank you for sending across the book Priyadarshini!