Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit

Hindu Tales from the Sanskrit brings S. M. Mitra’s approach to children’s, fiction, shorts into clear focus first published in 1919. At its center are curiosity, growth, imagination, friendship, and the testing of values, developed through the conventions and freedoms of children’s, fiction, shorts. Rather than depending on topical novelty, the book builds its interest through the interaction of character, situation, and idea. S. M. Mitra relies on a clear, lively style designed to make wonder and danger immediately accessible, allowing mood and structure to carry as much meaning as subject matter. At roughly 39,773 words with a fairly easy reading profile, it offers a reading commitment that is easy to judge before beginning while still leaving room for close attention. Beyond its immediate story or argument, the book matters for its place in the development of literature written for younger readers. Readers drawn to children’s, fiction, shorts and curiosity will find a work that combines a distinct period voice with questions that remain recognizable today.