The River, The Eagle and the Brave boys: Mythological stories retold

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This book is a collection of seven short stories retold from Hindu mythology told in a captivating way, so as to enthuse the present day readers. It is about seven young boys who have scaled great heights because of their exemplary qualities. Their stories are thrilling and interesting with a lot of twists and turns. They faced difficulties and challenges but never feared to face them. They worked hard and came out successful. What is common to all the characters is that none of them feared failure. The stories are mainly meant for children from eight to fifteen years of age. However older people can read them to narrate to others. It will be differently understood by different readers. While six years old Bhagirath is faced with the challenge of bringing down a water body from heaven, Ashtavakra, born with eight deformities, has the task of getting his father released from a prison beneath a river. Similarly Garuda from birth had the responsibility of redeeming his mother from slavery and five years old Dhruva aspired for attaining the highest position in life. Cute little boy, Prahlad of five years had to face the murder attempts made by his own father. And Nachiketa was the inquisitive boy who wanted to achieve the highest knowledge. Udanka had utmost respect to his teachers, and Markandeya became immortal. All these stories have a deep underlying philosophical meaning. However I have focused on the literal meaning only and not the figurative meaning. External meaning is sufficient to enjoy the story. By citing the examples of these boys, this book aims to inculcate values like courage and emotional strength to young readers. Mythological stories are invaluable treasures that our ancestors have left, and they have continued to entertain readers of generation after generation. However they have to be refreshed time to time. They are great classics that have withstood the force of waves of time. This book is presenting some such interesting stories, in a concise way.