The Bhagavata Purana or Bhagavatam has for centuries been one of the favourite religious texts of India, and this is no small measure due of its charming and attractive stories. In the present book, the readers will find a condensed account of all their favourite stories from the Bhagavatam — the story of Sri Krishna, the story of Prahlada, of Dhruva, of King Bharata, and many more. There are stories of rishis, kings, heroes, avatars, and of devas and asuras. Through the medium of these stories, the Bhagavatam subtly but surely conveys the eternal human values and impels its readers to the path of righteousness.More than 15 illustrations add to the value of this book.
The concepts are explained in (very) simple terms and it is a good book for introducing children and new people (from other cultures who are new to the Vedantic way) to Vedantic philosophy. I especially liked the following concepts/stories for their simple but powerful meaning: historicity of Krishna is irrelevant, the answers by Nava-Yogis on deliverance, a person his his/her own Guru, the 24 gurus of avadhuta,Krishana to Uddhava on Maya, Essense of Bhakti Yoga, independent existence of Supreme soul. Although it appeared to me that certain concepts are inserted in this abridged version to make it relevant to present day readers (eg. knowledge of water cycle to the ancient sages, stop animal sacrifice, etc). Also there appeared some inconsistencies with the Mahabharat (eg. Balram attaining mahasamaadhi at Prabhas and not going for pilgrimage as shown in Mahabharat), but I think they are present as such in the Bhagwatam and have been merely translated. I highly doubt that Krishna stole the clothes in this manner (page 110). Also for some unmentioned reasons 'Sridama' instead of 'Sudama' has been used. I would say overall the compiler has done a commendable job of translating and simplifying the stories. I would recommend to read following pages (which are my favorite): *11,26,40,166-172,175,176-182,183,184,185-186,192,198*.
This book summarises a voluminous epic Mahabhagaata to the convenience of the current day reader. The reading of this concise form stimulates love and devotion to the Supreme Reality, narrated in the form interesting stories. This book very helpful tool to teach young children.