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The Mystery of Munroe Island: and Other Stories
Join Professor Trilokeshwar Shonku, eccentric genius and scientist, on an incredible world tour as he confronts a daring doppelganger,undertakes an experiment to create pure gold, unravels the mystery of a scientist’s loss of memory and visits an unknown island to look for an amazing fruit, amongst other escapades,What is the message in the mysterious papyrus found in Cairo and why did scientists go missing in the deep jungle of Congo? Is there any truth about the sightings of the UFO and what happens when he takes an extraordinary animal to Koblenz in Germany?
Featuring the indomitable Professor Shonku and a bunch of madcap characters is presented here in a brilliant new translation that brings alive the magic and charm of Satyajit Ray’s imaginative world. Get ready for some hair-raising fun with the weird and wonderful Prof. Shonku, whose exploits have held readers spellbound for over five decades.
Featuring the indomitable Professor Shonku and a bunch of madcap characters is presented here in a brilliant new translation that brings alive the magic and charm of Satyajit Ray’s imaginative world. Get ready for some hair-raising fun with the weird and wonderful Prof. Shonku, whose exploits have held readers spellbound for over five decades.
270 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 5, 2015
25 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Satyajit Ray
676 books1,522 followersSatyajit Ray (Bengali: সত্যজিৎ রায়) was an Indian filmmaker and author of Bengali fiction and regarded as one of the greatest auteurs of world cinema. Ray was born in the city of Calcutta into a Bengali family prominent in the world of arts and literature. Starting his career as a commercial artist, Ray was drawn into independent filmmaking after meeting French filmmaker Jean Renoir and watching Vittorio De Sica's Italian neorealist 1948 film, Bicycle Thieves.
Ray directed 36 films, including feature films, documentaries and shorts. He was also a fiction writer, publisher, illustrator, calligrapher, graphic designer and film critic. He authored several short stories and novels, primarily aimed at children and adolescents.
Ray's first film, Pather Panchali (1955), won eleven international prizes, including Best Human Documentary at the Cannes Film Festival. This film, Aparajito (1956) and Apur Sansar (1959) form The Apu Trilogy. Ray did the scripting, casting, scoring, and editing, and designed his own credit titles and publicity material. Ray received many major awards in his career, including 32 Indian National Film Awards, a number of awards at international film festivals and award ceremonies, and an Academy Award in 1992. The Government of India honoured him with the Bharat Ratna in 1992.
Early Life and Background:
Ray's grandfather, Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury was a writer, illustrator, philosopher, publisher, amateur astronomer and a leader of the Brahmo Samaj, a religious and social movement in nineteenth century Bengal. Sukumar Ray, Upendrakishore's son and father of Satyajit, was a pioneering Bengali author and poet of nonsense rhyme and children's literature, an illustrator and a critic. Ray was born to Sukumar and Suprabha Ray in Calcutta.
Ray completed his B.A. (Hons.) in Economics at Presidency College of the University of Calcutta, though his interest was always in Fine Arts. In 1940, he went to study in Santiniketan where Ray came to appreciate Oriental Art. In 1949, Ray married Bijoya Das and the couple had a son, Sandip ray, who is now a famous film director.
Literary Works:
Ray created two of the most famous fictional characters ever in Bengali children's literature—Feluda, a sleuth in Holmesian tradition, and Professor Shonku, a genius scientist. Ray also wrote many short stories mostly centered on Macabre, Thriller and Paranormal which were published as collections of 12 stories. Ray wrote an autobiography about his childhood years, Jakhan Choto Chilam (1982). He also wrote essays on film, published as the collections: Our Films, Their Films (1976), Bishoy Chalachchitra (1976), and Ekei Bole Shooting (1979).
Awards, Honors and Recognitions:
Ray received many awards, including 32 National Film Awards by the Government of India. At the Moscow Film Festival in 1979, he was awarded for the contribution to cinema. At the Berlin Film Festival, he was one of only three to win the Silver Bear for Best Director more than once and holds the record for the most Golden Bear nominations, with seven. At the Venice Film Festival, he won a Golden Lion for Aparajito(1956), and awarded the Golden Lion Honorary Award in 1982. In 1992 he was posthumously awarded the Akira Kurosawa Award for Lifetime Achievement in Directing at the San Francisco International Film Festival.
Ray directed 36 films, including feature films, documentaries and shorts. He was also a fiction writer, publisher, illustrator, calligrapher, graphic designer and film critic. He authored several short stories and novels, primarily aimed at children and adolescents.
Ray's first film, Pather Panchali (1955), won eleven international prizes, including Best Human Documentary at the Cannes Film Festival. This film, Aparajito (1956) and Apur Sansar (1959) form The Apu Trilogy. Ray did the scripting, casting, scoring, and editing, and designed his own credit titles and publicity material. Ray received many major awards in his career, including 32 Indian National Film Awards, a number of awards at international film festivals and award ceremonies, and an Academy Award in 1992. The Government of India honoured him with the Bharat Ratna in 1992.
Early Life and Background:
Ray's grandfather, Upendrakishore Ray Chowdhury was a writer, illustrator, philosopher, publisher, amateur astronomer and a leader of the Brahmo Samaj, a religious and social movement in nineteenth century Bengal. Sukumar Ray, Upendrakishore's son and father of Satyajit, was a pioneering Bengali author and poet of nonsense rhyme and children's literature, an illustrator and a critic. Ray was born to Sukumar and Suprabha Ray in Calcutta.
Ray completed his B.A. (Hons.) in Economics at Presidency College of the University of Calcutta, though his interest was always in Fine Arts. In 1940, he went to study in Santiniketan where Ray came to appreciate Oriental Art. In 1949, Ray married Bijoya Das and the couple had a son, Sandip ray, who is now a famous film director.
Literary Works:
Ray created two of the most famous fictional characters ever in Bengali children's literature—Feluda, a sleuth in Holmesian tradition, and Professor Shonku, a genius scientist. Ray also wrote many short stories mostly centered on Macabre, Thriller and Paranormal which were published as collections of 12 stories. Ray wrote an autobiography about his childhood years, Jakhan Choto Chilam (1982). He also wrote essays on film, published as the collections: Our Films, Their Films (1976), Bishoy Chalachchitra (1976), and Ekei Bole Shooting (1979).
Awards, Honors and Recognitions:
Ray received many awards, including 32 National Film Awards by the Government of India. At the Moscow Film Festival in 1979, he was awarded for the contribution to cinema. At the Berlin Film Festival, he was one of only three to win the Silver Bear for Best Director more than once and holds the record for the most Golden Bear nominations, with seven. At the Venice Film Festival, he won a Golden Lion for Aparajito(1956), and awarded the Golden Lion Honorary Award in 1982. In 1992 he was posthumously awarded the Akira Kurosawa Award for Lifetime Achievement in Directing at the San Francisco International Film Festival.
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
November 20, 2021
It is a delightful collection of 10 Sonkhu stories by Satyajit Ray- Dr. Schering's memory, Hypnojen, The Black Night of Professor Sonkhu, Shonku's golden opportunity, The mystery of Munroe Island, A messenger from space, Nakur Babu and El Dorado, Shonku's expedition to Congo, Shonku and the UFO and EA. Beautifully translated in English by Indrani Majumdar, the illustrations by Ray make it a collector’s edition. Each story is set in a different location-Norway, Austria, Granada, Munroe Island, Egypt, Brazil,Congo, Chinese Turkistan and Germany.
July 26, 2017
This book deals with the adventures of scientist Shonku. 10 stories that deal with various places that the scientist along with others to solve the mysteries. The stories mention the devices that Shonku developed are really good the read.
November 16, 2021
My young nephew is an avid reader. He was visiting , so I asked him to get me his latest favourite book and he bought me this.
The book is on the adventures of Indian scientist & professor Trilokeshwar Shonku, who is world famous for his exceptional inventions. Considering the book was written in 1960s, some of these inventions are quite interesting and futuristic but still fictional. I would like to have the Miracurall (drug that cures all ailments) and Cerebrilliant tablet (speeds up brain function) in particular :P. His Annihilin gun that vaporizes the being who is shot also looks quite useful.
The master storyteller Satyajit Ray takes us on a world tour with Professor Shonku with 10 amazing stories as the professor unravels various mysteries, undertakes an experiment to create gold, travels to an unknown island looking for a forbidden fruit that promises eternal life, connects with the aliens, revives a scientist’s loss of memory, gets lost in the jungle of Africa and comes across a T-rex, amongst many other escapades.
The stories start with a mystery at hand and keeps your attention with a wonderful built up but most of them end abruptly leaving one wanting for more. The sudden solutions and endings give a chacha choudhary kind of feel. I got little irritated with the endings and hence knocked off a star.
The book is on the adventures of Indian scientist & professor Trilokeshwar Shonku, who is world famous for his exceptional inventions. Considering the book was written in 1960s, some of these inventions are quite interesting and futuristic but still fictional. I would like to have the Miracurall (drug that cures all ailments) and Cerebrilliant tablet (speeds up brain function) in particular :P. His Annihilin gun that vaporizes the being who is shot also looks quite useful.
The master storyteller Satyajit Ray takes us on a world tour with Professor Shonku with 10 amazing stories as the professor unravels various mysteries, undertakes an experiment to create gold, travels to an unknown island looking for a forbidden fruit that promises eternal life, connects with the aliens, revives a scientist’s loss of memory, gets lost in the jungle of Africa and comes across a T-rex, amongst many other escapades.
The stories start with a mystery at hand and keeps your attention with a wonderful built up but most of them end abruptly leaving one wanting for more. The sudden solutions and endings give a chacha choudhary kind of feel. I got little irritated with the endings and hence knocked off a star.
April 29, 2020
The kind of book I needed this quarantine. Science, humor and Ray.
February 8, 2021
I love these detective/sci-fi stories and Prof Trilokeshwar Shonku with his inventions such as Annhilin gun, miracurol medicine, omniscope, microsonograph, remembrain. Satyajit Ray, the writer, is every bit as good as Satyajit Ray, the filmmaker. Here he is at his imaginative best. In this interview, Mr. Ray is discussing about his science-fiction writing career and Prof. Shonku.
November 6, 2022
Amazing short story collection this one:)
November 21, 2023
Title: The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories.
Author: Satyajit Ray
Genre: Science Fiction, Children's Literature.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
In the realm of children's literature, Satyajit Ray stands as a towering figure, his stories captivating young minds with their blend of science, imagination, and adventure. His collection, "The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories," epitomizes this enchanting fusion, taking readers on a whirlwind journey through the ingenious world of Professor Trilokeshwar Shonku, a Bengali scientist with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a penchant for the extraordinary.
The title story, "The Mystery of Munroe Island," transports us to a remote island where Professor Shonku embarks on a quest to unravel the enigma of a mysterious fruit rumored to possess miraculous healing properties. Along the way, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters, from a doppelganger to a talking parrot, each adding a touch of whimsy to the narrative.
"The Return of Khoka," the second tale, delves into the realm of robotics, as Professor Shonku constructs an intelligent robot named Khoka. However, Khoka's unexpected development into a mischievous prankster leads to hilarious misadventures, testing the limits of artificial intelligence and the bonds of friendship.
In "The Expedition to the Congo," Professor Shonku and his companions venture into the depths of the African jungle, seeking to uncover the secrets of a lost civilization. Their expedition takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a tribe of gorillas, sparking a fascinating exploration of interspecies communication and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The collection concludes with "The Professor's Pseudoscience," offering a lighthearted glimpse into Professor Shonku's attempts to create pure gold through alchemy. His experiments, though scientifically flawed, lead to a series of comical mishaps that highlight the importance of scientific rigor and the pursuit of knowledge.
Throughout the collection, Ray masterfully weaves scientific concepts into captivating narratives, igniting a love for science and a curiosity about the world in his young readers. His stories are not merely tales of adventure; they are invitations to explore the vast expanse of human knowledge, encouraging critical thinking and a spirit of inquiry.
The characters, from the eccentric Professor Shonku to his witty and inquisitive companion, Apu, are vividly portrayed, their personalities leaping off the pages and captivating young imaginations. Their interactions are infused with warmth and humor, creating a sense of camaraderie that draws readers into their world.
Ray's writing style is simple yet engaging, effortlessly capturing the attention of young readers while introducing them to complex scientific concepts. His use of clear language and vivid descriptions brings the stories to life, making them both enjoyable and enlightening.
"The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories" is a timeless collection of tales that has enthralled generations of readers. Its blend of science fiction, adventure, and humor makes it a perfect introduction to the world of science and the power of imagination. With its captivating characters, intriguing mysteries, and emphasis on scientific inquiry, this collection is a must-read for any child with a thirst for knowledge and a love for adventure.
Author: Satyajit Ray
Genre: Science Fiction, Children's Literature.
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
In the realm of children's literature, Satyajit Ray stands as a towering figure, his stories captivating young minds with their blend of science, imagination, and adventure. His collection, "The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories," epitomizes this enchanting fusion, taking readers on a whirlwind journey through the ingenious world of Professor Trilokeshwar Shonku, a Bengali scientist with an insatiable thirst for knowledge and a penchant for the extraordinary.
The title story, "The Mystery of Munroe Island," transports us to a remote island where Professor Shonku embarks on a quest to unravel the enigma of a mysterious fruit rumored to possess miraculous healing properties. Along the way, he encounters a cast of eccentric characters, from a doppelganger to a talking parrot, each adding a touch of whimsy to the narrative.
"The Return of Khoka," the second tale, delves into the realm of robotics, as Professor Shonku constructs an intelligent robot named Khoka. However, Khoka's unexpected development into a mischievous prankster leads to hilarious misadventures, testing the limits of artificial intelligence and the bonds of friendship.
In "The Expedition to the Congo," Professor Shonku and his companions venture into the depths of the African jungle, seeking to uncover the secrets of a lost civilization. Their expedition takes an unexpected turn when they encounter a tribe of gorillas, sparking a fascinating exploration of interspecies communication and the interconnectedness of all living beings.
The collection concludes with "The Professor's Pseudoscience," offering a lighthearted glimpse into Professor Shonku's attempts to create pure gold through alchemy. His experiments, though scientifically flawed, lead to a series of comical mishaps that highlight the importance of scientific rigor and the pursuit of knowledge.
Throughout the collection, Ray masterfully weaves scientific concepts into captivating narratives, igniting a love for science and a curiosity about the world in his young readers. His stories are not merely tales of adventure; they are invitations to explore the vast expanse of human knowledge, encouraging critical thinking and a spirit of inquiry.
The characters, from the eccentric Professor Shonku to his witty and inquisitive companion, Apu, are vividly portrayed, their personalities leaping off the pages and captivating young imaginations. Their interactions are infused with warmth and humor, creating a sense of camaraderie that draws readers into their world.
Ray's writing style is simple yet engaging, effortlessly capturing the attention of young readers while introducing them to complex scientific concepts. His use of clear language and vivid descriptions brings the stories to life, making them both enjoyable and enlightening.
"The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories" is a timeless collection of tales that has enthralled generations of readers. Its blend of science fiction, adventure, and humor makes it a perfect introduction to the world of science and the power of imagination. With its captivating characters, intriguing mysteries, and emphasis on scientific inquiry, this collection is a must-read for any child with a thirst for knowledge and a love for adventure.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2024
Satyajit Ray's
The Mystery of Munroe Island and Other Stories
is a collection of ten of Professor Shonku's stories. All ten of these fantastic stories are the work of a master scientific mind who knows his audience well. Shonku's exploits occur worldwide, including in Switzerland, Norway, England, Egypt, Congo, China, Austria, Germany, and the Atlantic Ocean. Professor Shonku and his friends Willian Crole, Jeremy Saunders, and Nakurchandra Biswas solve some of the most intriguing mysteries in this book. This collection contains the following stories:
1. Dr Schering's Memory
2. Hypnojen
3. The Black Night of Professor Shonku
4. Shonku's Golden Opportunity
5. The Mystery of Munroe Island
6. A Messenger from Space
7. Nakur Babu and El Dorado
8. Shonku's Expedition to the Congo
9. Shonku and the UFO
10. EA
November 18, 2020
Great read .I liked this book a lot . You must read this book if you love mystery , adventurous and thrilling books . Loved this book a lot . Amazing read..................Must Read for kids
July 27, 2022
Amazing, just amazing!
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews