Rikki-Tikki-Tavi (picture book) facts for kids
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| Author | Rudyard Kipling |
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| Illustrator | Jerry Pinkney |
| Country | USA |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Children's literature, picture book, Indian folktales |
| Published | 1997 (Morrow Junior Books) |
| Media type | Print (hardback) |
| Pages | 40 (unpaginated) |
| ISBN | 9780688143206 |
| OCLC | 36017251 |
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a famous story about a brave mongoose named Rikki-Tikki-Tavi. He protects a human family from dangerous cobras. This version, published in 1997, was retold by Jerry Pinkney. It is based on the original classic tale by Rudyard Kipling.
Contents
What is Rikki-Tikki-Tavi About?
The story begins when a young mongoose, Rikki-Tikki-Tavi, is washed out of his burrow by a flood. A kind English family finds him and takes him in. They live in a large bungalow in India. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi quickly becomes part of their home.
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi's Adventures
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is a curious and brave mongoose. He explores the garden and meets other animals. He soon discovers a big threat to the family. Two dangerous cobras, Nag and Nagaina, live in the garden. They want to harm the family and Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.
The Battle for Safety
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi knows he must protect his new human family. He bravely fights the cobras. Mongooses are natural enemies of snakes. They are very quick and agile. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi uses his speed and courage to defeat the snakes. He makes the garden safe for everyone again.
Who Wrote the Original Story?
The original story of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi was written by Rudyard Kipling. He was a famous British writer. Kipling was born in Bombay, India, in 1865. He spent much of his childhood there. His experiences in India inspired many of his stories.
Kipling's The Jungle Book
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is one of the stories in Kipling's collection called The Jungle Book. This book was first published in 1894. The Jungle Book includes other well-known tales. These stories often feature animals that act like humans. They teach lessons about life and nature.
Who Retold This Version?
The 1997 version of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi was retold and illustrated by Jerry Pinkney. He was an award-winning American artist. Pinkney was known for his beautiful and detailed illustrations. His artwork often brought classic stories to life for new readers.
Pinkney's Artistic Style
Jerry Pinkney used watercolors and pencils to create his art. His illustrations are very realistic and full of emotion. He won many awards for his work. These include the Caldecott Medal and the Coretta Scott King Award. His retelling of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is loved for its stunning pictures.
What is a Mongoose?
A mongoose is a small, furry mammal. They are known for their quick movements and sharp senses. Mongooses live in parts of Africa, Asia, and southern Europe. They are famous for their ability to fight and kill venomous snakes.
Mongoose Behavior
Mongooses are very agile and have fast reflexes. This helps them avoid snake bites. They often hunt small animals, insects, and eggs. They are also very curious and intelligent creatures. Rikki-Tikki-Tavi shows these traits in the story.
What is a Cobra?
A cobra is a type of venomous snake. They are found in Africa and Asia. Cobras are famous for their hood. They spread this hood when they feel threatened. This makes them look bigger and more intimidating.
Cobra Characteristics
Cobras are known for their powerful venom. Their bite can be very dangerous. They are also very territorial. Nag and Nagaina in the story show these characteristics. They are a big threat to the family and Rikki-Tikki-Tavi.
Why is This Story Important?
Rikki-Tikki-Tavi is more than just an animal adventure. It teaches important lessons. The story shows the value of bravery and loyalty. It also highlights the idea of protecting those you care about.
Themes in the Story
- Bravery: Rikki-Tikki-Tavi faces danger without fear.
- Loyalty: He protects the family who saved him.
- Good versus Evil: The mongoose represents good, fighting the evil cobras.
- Nature's Balance: The story shows how different animals interact in their environment.
The tale of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi continues to be popular. It is a timeless story about courage and friendship.
