Author: Sutapa Basu
Publisher: Perky Parrot (An Imprint of Niyogi Books)
I was provided a media copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
What if you could be a detective for a summer?
Evil is stalking the jungle. As tiger after tiger vanishes from Nagarhole
Wildlife Reserve, despite sophisticated digital and human eyes on the ground,
DFO Vinay Mishra and his team of forest officials are left puzzled. Also, what
is the role of a Nawab, who is obsessed with history, in the midst of this
mystery? Faced with this Murder in the Jungle while on their summer vacation,
young Kabir, Tara, Vicky, Ishi and their white hamster, Ripper, get into their
best investigative mode. Can the five Mystery Hounders combine their online and
on-ground detective skills to solve the mystery? Will they be able to track the
crafty criminals, expose their nefarious plans, and save the DFO’s
reputation—as well as the threatened tigers? Can they live up to their motto of
‘Together we hound mysteries to ground!’?
Murder in the jungle is a wonderfully written story that will appeal to children who love reading stories about detectives. Sutapa’s writing is simple and engaging which would keep the readers turning the pages. Another aspect in books for children is the ability to hold their attention as well as educate them as well. This book works wonderfully on that aspect. Sutapa explores the Nagarhole Tiger Reserve and touches base upon Project Tiger and the idea of conservation of the flora and fauna around us. Reminiscent of Enid Blyton’s writings, I found the concept of the book similar but apt to the plot that she developed. The book is very contemporary and I liked that she has integrated AI as well into the story which could pique the interest of the readers, making them look it up and learn more about it. The climax and the reveal were executed nicely and it kept me hooked right till the end.
The characters in the book have been sketched quite nicely. The characters
of Kabir, Tara, Vicky and Ishi are relatable. Having kids in the story with
different ages helps widen the relatability factor. Having each of them develop
an interest in different aspects was another wonderful way of connecting with
the young readers.
Overall, I thing that the book could be a wonderful way to introduce books at a young age that informs, entertains, and educates at the same time. The book scores a 4.75/5 for me.
Grab a copy of the book on Amazon India or your nearest bookstore!
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