The Astronomer

by Rabindranath Tagore and illustrated by Harshvardhan Kadam

“The Astronomer” by Rabindranath Tagore and illustrated by Harshvardhan Kadam. Published by Katha. This is book four of Tantalizing Tagore which is the set of five poems by India’s most loved poet. A good way to introduce Tagore’s works to the little ones. This poem is about two little children who are talking about the moon. What better topic than the moon for children! Most children that I have seen have had a fascination for the moon. 

A little girl thinks that she can catch the moon. Her elder brother is more grown-up and tells her that it is not possible to catch the moon at all. It is quite far and huge. She has her set of beliefs which are contrary to what he says. Her mind is made up. There is no possibility of not being able to catch the moon at all. Her brother, however, keeps calling her silly. That doesn’t put her off. She still feels that she can get the moon. And why not?! The two of them have a fun filled discussion on this. 

One of the best things about the book are the illustrations which are so charming. Particularly loved the one showing the full moon rising gloriously over the Howrah bridge. The children are adorable and their innocence is so endearing. Was wondering why the book is titled “The Astronomer”. Maybe it is to suggest that she will become an astronomer some day. Who knows! 

There are fun facts about the moon and facts about Tagore in the last couple of pages. My 7 year old has loved this book since he was 4.  It was a natural progression for him from his favourite book by Eric Carle called “Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me”. Thanks to Aashti Mudnani from Lightroom Bookstore in Cooke Town, Bengaluru for recommending this gem of a book by Tagore! Apt for 4+ year olds.