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Chitra Soundar’s Stories from India
Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India
Can Prince Veera and his best friend outsmart the king’s trickiest subjects? Inspired by traditional Indian folktales, these stories are sure to delight.
Being a wise and just ruler is no easy task. That’s what Prince Veera discovers when he and his best friend, Suku, are given the opportunity to preside over the court of his father, King Bheema. Some of the subjects’ complaints are easily addressed, but others are much more challenging. How should they handle the case of the greedy merchant who wishes to charge people for enjoying the smells of his sweets? And can they prove that an innocent man cannot possibly spread bad luck? Will Prince Veera and Suku be able to settle the dispute between a man and his neighbor to whom he sells a well — but not the water in it? Or solve the mystery of the jewels that have turned into pickles? Illustrated throughout by Uma Krishnaswamy, these eight original tales by Chitra Soundar task Veera and Suku with outwitting the kingdom’s greediest, wiliest subjects. Are the two clever boys up to the challenge?
Being a wise and just ruler is no easy task. That’s what Prince Veera discovers when he and his best friend, Suku, are given the opportunity to preside over the court of his father, King Bheema. Some of the subjects’ complaints are easily addressed, but others are much more challenging. How should they handle the case of the greedy merchant who wishes to charge people for enjoying the smells of his sweets? And can they prove that an innocent man cannot possibly spread bad luck? Will Prince Veera and Suku be able to settle the dispute between a man and his neighbor to whom he sells a well — but not the water in it? Or solve the mystery of the jewels that have turned into pickles? Illustrated throughout by Uma Krishnaswamy, these eight original tales by Chitra Soundar task Veera and Suku with outwitting the kingdom’s greediest, wiliest subjects. Are the two clever boys up to the challenge?
192 pages, Hardcover
First published December 31, 2018
About the author
Chitra Soundar
81 books79 followersChitra Soundar is originally from the culturally colourful India where traditions, festivals and mythology are a way of life. After six great years in the island city-state Singapore, Chitra now lives in London.
Chitra's primary interest is in writing picture books and early & emergent readers. She enjoys retelling funny folktales from around the world, especially from India.
Chitra's primary interest is in writing picture books and early & emergent readers. She enjoys retelling funny folktales from around the world, especially from India.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 95 reviews
January 10, 2021
Prince Veera and his best friend Suku, the son of farmers who had won a scholarship to study with the prince in the palace, attend to a number of puzzling disputes in this delightful collection of stories from Chitra Soundar. Here we find:
Prince Veera's First Case, in which the prince, filling in when his father is ill, settles a disagreement between a sweet-maker who wants to charge for the smell of his goods and a poor man who enjoyed that smell.
Who Stole the Laddus?, in which Veera finds a clever way to determine the guilty party, using the thief's own consciousness of his transgression against him.
The Case of the Greedy Moneylender, in which Veera outwits and shames a harsh and dishonest miser, by first pretending that his borrowed pots have reproduced, and then claiming that they have died.
In The Unfortunate Case Veera convinces his own father, King Bheema, that misfortune cannot be spread through bad luck, but can be inflicted through harsh punishment.
All's Well With Mango Pickles sees Veera and Suku discovering something about pickles from Suku's mother, and using that knowledge to settle a dispute between neighbors, regarding the valuables one left in the other's care.
Freezing Lakes and Missing Crows, in which Veera's great-uncle, Raja Apoorva, visits the kingdom and thinks to school his nephew and great-nephew on how to hear cases. He is instead taught a lesson, not once but twice, by Veera and Suku.
What's Fair?, in which Veera and Suku discover that one of King Bheema's guards is extorting bribes from the citizens, if they want to access the royal court.
And finally, Gray Elephants and Five Fools, which sees the two boys coming to the aid of Suku's washerwoman aunt, when her neighbor plots against her.
Originally published as two separate volumes in the UK - A Dollop of Ghee and a Pot of Wisdom and A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice - and then as one combined book in the USA, Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India is an immensely engaging work. The stories are engrossing, and the accompanying artwork from Uma Krishnaswamy is appealing. Quite a few of the stories here seem to be based upon folktales - the first one, in which symbolic payment is extracted for the enjoyment of an odor, is quite widespread, worldwide - although Soundar has made them her own, and woven them together into one whole. Recommended to middle-grade reader who enjoy folktales, or to anyone seeking children's books with an Indian cultural background.
Prince Veera's First Case, in which the prince, filling in when his father is ill, settles a disagreement between a sweet-maker who wants to charge for the smell of his goods and a poor man who enjoyed that smell.
Who Stole the Laddus?, in which Veera finds a clever way to determine the guilty party, using the thief's own consciousness of his transgression against him.
The Case of the Greedy Moneylender, in which Veera outwits and shames a harsh and dishonest miser, by first pretending that his borrowed pots have reproduced, and then claiming that they have died.
In The Unfortunate Case Veera convinces his own father, King Bheema, that misfortune cannot be spread through bad luck, but can be inflicted through harsh punishment.
All's Well With Mango Pickles sees Veera and Suku discovering something about pickles from Suku's mother, and using that knowledge to settle a dispute between neighbors, regarding the valuables one left in the other's care.
Freezing Lakes and Missing Crows, in which Veera's great-uncle, Raja Apoorva, visits the kingdom and thinks to school his nephew and great-nephew on how to hear cases. He is instead taught a lesson, not once but twice, by Veera and Suku.
What's Fair?, in which Veera and Suku discover that one of King Bheema's guards is extorting bribes from the citizens, if they want to access the royal court.
And finally, Gray Elephants and Five Fools, which sees the two boys coming to the aid of Suku's washerwoman aunt, when her neighbor plots against her.
Originally published as two separate volumes in the UK - A Dollop of Ghee and a Pot of Wisdom and A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice - and then as one combined book in the USA, Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India is an immensely engaging work. The stories are engrossing, and the accompanying artwork from Uma Krishnaswamy is appealing. Quite a few of the stories here seem to be based upon folktales - the first one, in which symbolic payment is extracted for the enjoyment of an odor, is quite widespread, worldwide - although Soundar has made them her own, and woven them together into one whole. Recommended to middle-grade reader who enjoy folktales, or to anyone seeking children's books with an Indian cultural background.
September 11, 2018
You can read all my review on Blog - Books Teacup and Reviews
I loved Indian feel of the book and that cover. The stories were based on Indian folk tales set in imaginary kingdom of India. The Prince Veera and Suku reminded me of Birbal and his wits.
The book was written in two parts with same characters and same theme. Both parts started with the same but slight different introduction of King Bheema‘s kingdom, his son- Prince Veera, and Veera’s best friend- Suku, who was poor farmer’s son but very smart and intelligent like Prince Veera.
Both boys were 10 yrs old with sharp and witty mind and had a great ability of solving affairs of king’s court. One day when king was ill they took king’s place and solved many cases of kingdom’s people and that’s how they started their own court in absence of king helping people.
King Bheema was most humble, generous king and great father. I admired King for giving his son opportunity of solving the cases, letting him play with a farmer’s son, how he understood both boys and never minded when his son pointed out his mistake.
I loved Prince Veera’s bravery who stood up against the King himself and making him realize his mistake. Suku was great friend who stayed by Veera’s side and like his friend he was brave and humble. He shaded light on the cases which were overlooked by Prince or King and gave the best advice.
Both kids learned lot from their cases. I liked how thy developed with each stories understanding people of kingdom and turning wise, humble, cleverer with each case, teaching lessons, making fair decisions in favor of needy and helpless people without crossing their lines and hurting anyone’s feeling.
I loved to read some silly cases and it was amusing to see both kids solving them so effortlessly. Each story in book gave insightful messages about justice, treating people right and fair and being wise and honest.
First story of the book, Veera’s first case was my favorite- It was with a message of poverty and how some people don’t have a privilege to buy expensive eateries. Kids and I myself love sweet and when we are given an option between vegetable and sweet we definitely go for sweets. Who doesn’t like them! But author conveyed very good message here through this story that one should appreciate what they are getting for food whether it’s expensive sweet or cheap but healthy vegetables.
Other stories were about lie and thievery and how conscience of guilty person works; about superstition and hasty judgment of people because of their own carelessness; about not to fool yourself by exaggerated false praises of people; and many neighbor feuds
Then there was a relative alert! It was my another most favorite – In this story Prince Veera’s infamous granduncle came to spend summer in his kingdom and tested Veera and Suku’s ability of running the court which was not at all easy. It was about the facing problems, accepting challenge and teaching lesson even to a relative but with all respect and without hurting their feelings. It was also about bravery, speaking for right and standing up against unfairness.
All of them were interesting making readers intrigued to read how these two small kids were going to outsmart people on their own tricks. Second part of the book was funnier and wittier than first one.
Illustrations were beautiful. They were exactly like pictured on cover but b/w resonating the theme of the story. They would have looked prettier with color but I like them anyway. I wish there were more stories in the book.
Overall, it was fun to read with pots of wisdom and wits blended in Indian flavors that all kids would love to taste. I highly recommend this book to all young readers.
*** Note: I received e-ARC via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author, publisher, and NetGalley. ***
I loved Indian feel of the book and that cover. The stories were based on Indian folk tales set in imaginary kingdom of India. The Prince Veera and Suku reminded me of Birbal and his wits.
The book was written in two parts with same characters and same theme. Both parts started with the same but slight different introduction of King Bheema‘s kingdom, his son- Prince Veera, and Veera’s best friend- Suku, who was poor farmer’s son but very smart and intelligent like Prince Veera.
Both boys were 10 yrs old with sharp and witty mind and had a great ability of solving affairs of king’s court. One day when king was ill they took king’s place and solved many cases of kingdom’s people and that’s how they started their own court in absence of king helping people.
King Bheema was most humble, generous king and great father. I admired King for giving his son opportunity of solving the cases, letting him play with a farmer’s son, how he understood both boys and never minded when his son pointed out his mistake.
I loved Prince Veera’s bravery who stood up against the King himself and making him realize his mistake. Suku was great friend who stayed by Veera’s side and like his friend he was brave and humble. He shaded light on the cases which were overlooked by Prince or King and gave the best advice.
Both kids learned lot from their cases. I liked how thy developed with each stories understanding people of kingdom and turning wise, humble, cleverer with each case, teaching lessons, making fair decisions in favor of needy and helpless people without crossing their lines and hurting anyone’s feeling.
I loved to read some silly cases and it was amusing to see both kids solving them so effortlessly. Each story in book gave insightful messages about justice, treating people right and fair and being wise and honest.
First story of the book, Veera’s first case was my favorite- It was with a message of poverty and how some people don’t have a privilege to buy expensive eateries. Kids and I myself love sweet and when we are given an option between vegetable and sweet we definitely go for sweets. Who doesn’t like them! But author conveyed very good message here through this story that one should appreciate what they are getting for food whether it’s expensive sweet or cheap but healthy vegetables.
Other stories were about lie and thievery and how conscience of guilty person works; about superstition and hasty judgment of people because of their own carelessness; about not to fool yourself by exaggerated false praises of people; and many neighbor feuds
Then there was a relative alert! It was my another most favorite – In this story Prince Veera’s infamous granduncle came to spend summer in his kingdom and tested Veera and Suku’s ability of running the court which was not at all easy. It was about the facing problems, accepting challenge and teaching lesson even to a relative but with all respect and without hurting their feelings. It was also about bravery, speaking for right and standing up against unfairness.
All of them were interesting making readers intrigued to read how these two small kids were going to outsmart people on their own tricks. Second part of the book was funnier and wittier than first one.
Illustrations were beautiful. They were exactly like pictured on cover but b/w resonating the theme of the story. They would have looked prettier with color but I like them anyway. I wish there were more stories in the book.
Overall, it was fun to read with pots of wisdom and wits blended in Indian flavors that all kids would love to taste. I highly recommend this book to all young readers.
*** Note: I received e-ARC via NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review. Many thanks to author, publisher, and NetGalley. ***
August 1, 2018
I loved this book SO MUCH.
The setting was realistic and fun. A kingdom with a benign King and his precocious, but wise for his tender years son, the lively markets, the sweet mangoes, the sticky juice dripping down your chin, the caw-caw of the crows, the shade of the mangrove trees, it was transportive.
The characters, already touched upon, but the King was wise and benevolent, his son and son's best friend, spirited and with a strong sense of right and wrong. The quarreling neighbors and the loving family members supporting the prince and his friend, and also being supported by them as well. The characters, while slightly wiser than most people in real life, were still believable and you wish that we all could be so wise and fun-loving.
I really love how inventive the prince and his friend were in righting wrongs. They didn't punish, they pointed out the meanness to the person who was wrong in a roundabout, but still effective way. Though the prince was not shy about speaking his mind to his father the king.
Excellent book, I am glad to have read it. Good for young readers on up. 5, awesome I want more from this author, stars!
The setting was realistic and fun. A kingdom with a benign King and his precocious, but wise for his tender years son, the lively markets, the sweet mangoes, the sticky juice dripping down your chin, the caw-caw of the crows, the shade of the mangrove trees, it was transportive.
The characters, already touched upon, but the King was wise and benevolent, his son and son's best friend, spirited and with a strong sense of right and wrong. The quarreling neighbors and the loving family members supporting the prince and his friend, and also being supported by them as well. The characters, while slightly wiser than most people in real life, were still believable and you wish that we all could be so wise and fun-loving.
I really love how inventive the prince and his friend were in righting wrongs. They didn't punish, they pointed out the meanness to the person who was wrong in a roundabout, but still effective way. Though the prince was not shy about speaking his mind to his father the king.
Excellent book, I am glad to have read it. Good for young readers on up. 5, awesome I want more from this author, stars!
September 15, 2020
3.5*
Enjoyed this - yes, kid's books are good for adults too. I love the old King Solomon's court idea especially with 2 kids who listen to people's problems and try to find a solution. Ingenious!
Enjoyed this - yes, kid's books are good for adults too. I love the old King Solomon's court idea especially with 2 kids who listen to people's problems and try to find a solution. Ingenious!
February 22, 2022
I've read some of these justice & wisdom tales in other collections, but those were older books and probably oop. This is shiny & newer, illustrated, with a narrative all about the young prince and his wise 'common' friend. So much fun, and such good messages, and so much to teach about thinking creatively & problem-solving. Very highly recommended, especially to families who read aloud together, and classrooms that can find a way to discuss the themes.
Unfortunately I can't quite give it five stars, as there's no note saying which of these stories are in the Hindu folklore, which are universally Indian, which are original to the author. Otoh, author and illustrator are both of Indian ethnic and cultural descent, so even the original ones 'count.'
My library had it at 398.2, which makes sense, but it would also make sense to have it in Juvenile Fiction.
(no glossary, either... if 'gilli-danda' was defined in text I missed it)
Unfortunately I can't quite give it five stars, as there's no note saying which of these stories are in the Hindu folklore, which are universally Indian, which are original to the author. Otoh, author and illustrator are both of Indian ethnic and cultural descent, so even the original ones 'count.'
My library had it at 398.2, which makes sense, but it would also make sense to have it in Juvenile Fiction.
(no glossary, either... if 'gilli-danda' was defined in text I missed it)
December 18, 2018
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*I was provided with an ARC of this book through NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion. All quotes used may be subject to change upon publication.
This was such a pleasure to read, it was filled with some of the most humorous and rewarding stories, that were rich in personality, charm and the flavours of India. There were several short stories that made up Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship and I genuinely enjoyed each and every one of them, as all of them offered something new, but still kept a familiar cast of characters and setting. All of the stories centred around Prince Veera and his friend Suku and what they would get up to from day to day, as the lives of young people are always so full of adventure. I’m fond of both of the boys, but Prince Veera was just so adorable and wise beyond his 10 years, that he easily became my favourite, he was such a conscientious young man and his love for his people and his role as a prince was so touching. Suku was not of any royal blood or high social standing, but a scholarship that he had earned, meant that he took his lessons with the prince at the palace. These two boys were as thick as thieves and were always there to help each other get in and out of mischief. Suku did seem to be a lot more impulsive and hotheaded than Prince Veera, but both boys showed huge maturity for their ages, having very strong desires to stand up for what they believed in and help those in need. And it is those very attributes that led us on some fantastic journeys with the two of them.
The stories were very varied in their subject matter, but the one that stood out for me is the first story where the Prince helps his father with his kingly duties when he falls ill. Prince Veera sets up a mini court where he hears the complaints and concerns of his people, some being more serious than others, with people being wronged by their very neighbours, but almost all of them were extremely funny. For instance, “Another wanted to charge rent to the birds that sat on his roof. A woman came to complain that the roadside tree gave more shade to her neighbor’s house than her own”, no matter how ridiculous the case, Prince Veera took each one as seriously as the other and saw it as his princely duty to offer each person some sort of solution, and with the help of Suku and others in the kingdom he did just that. It was riveting to see how prince Veera went about solving all of these problems, and it was remarkable how this led to some of the most ingenious solutions. This was no easy task as it was very difficult to determine who was telling the truth in the dispute, and therefore, who should be rewarded and punished, and how. This spoke beautifully to the Prince’s character and what an amazing leader he would one day be.
Although the prince is highly intelligent and used his temporary stand in for the king, to make sure that the kingdom was being run in a just way, teaching lessons to those who would do wrong to others, there were still things that he was ignorant of and had to learn himself. This was most notably seen in one particular dispute between a poor man and a sweet shop owner, who thought that the man should pay him for filling himself up on the smell of his sweets alone. The sweet shop owner’s argument was that “It takes a lot of butter and sugar to get that smell…that smell attracts many customers into the shop. If they all came just to smell my sweets and never buy any, I wouldn’t make any money”. When asked to explain himself, the poor man said that he couldn’t afford to buy the sweets and enough filling foods for his family to survive on, with the meager amount of money he had. This opens the Prince’s eyes considerably as “He didn’t realize that people had to choose between vegetables and sweets. He was surprised that Kapi decided to buy vegetables instead of sweets. I’d definitely choose the sweets he thought”. It was so endearing to see him learning like this and take it all in his stride to help make better informed decisions about things in the kingdom.
To conclude, this was a beautiful collection of short stories that focused on one of the sweetest Princes and his brash, but kindhearted friend. These stories were light-hearted and colourful, yet they contained some beautiful messages about doing the right thing and how we can teach others to treat one another better. There were so many lessons threaded throughout the stories, that the prince either gave to those who needed to change their ways, including his very own father – the King, or ones that he, himself, learnt along the way, “We have to teach him a lesson, my friend,” said Prince Veera. “we can’t let him continue to cheat anymore”. I had so much fun reading these and think that children would enjoy them just as much, as the stories were entertaining but had a graspable depth to them. The illustrations featured throughout was a really nice touch and I loved how they emphasized certain aspects of a story. I would completely recommend this to everyone.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/museofnyxma...
*I was provided with an ARC of this book through NetGalley, in exchange for my honest opinion. All quotes used may be subject to change upon publication.
This was such a pleasure to read, it was filled with some of the most humorous and rewarding stories, that were rich in personality, charm and the flavours of India. There were several short stories that made up Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship and I genuinely enjoyed each and every one of them, as all of them offered something new, but still kept a familiar cast of characters and setting. All of the stories centred around Prince Veera and his friend Suku and what they would get up to from day to day, as the lives of young people are always so full of adventure. I’m fond of both of the boys, but Prince Veera was just so adorable and wise beyond his 10 years, that he easily became my favourite, he was such a conscientious young man and his love for his people and his role as a prince was so touching. Suku was not of any royal blood or high social standing, but a scholarship that he had earned, meant that he took his lessons with the prince at the palace. These two boys were as thick as thieves and were always there to help each other get in and out of mischief. Suku did seem to be a lot more impulsive and hotheaded than Prince Veera, but both boys showed huge maturity for their ages, having very strong desires to stand up for what they believed in and help those in need. And it is those very attributes that led us on some fantastic journeys with the two of them.
The stories were very varied in their subject matter, but the one that stood out for me is the first story where the Prince helps his father with his kingly duties when he falls ill. Prince Veera sets up a mini court where he hears the complaints and concerns of his people, some being more serious than others, with people being wronged by their very neighbours, but almost all of them were extremely funny. For instance, “Another wanted to charge rent to the birds that sat on his roof. A woman came to complain that the roadside tree gave more shade to her neighbor’s house than her own”, no matter how ridiculous the case, Prince Veera took each one as seriously as the other and saw it as his princely duty to offer each person some sort of solution, and with the help of Suku and others in the kingdom he did just that. It was riveting to see how prince Veera went about solving all of these problems, and it was remarkable how this led to some of the most ingenious solutions. This was no easy task as it was very difficult to determine who was telling the truth in the dispute, and therefore, who should be rewarded and punished, and how. This spoke beautifully to the Prince’s character and what an amazing leader he would one day be.
Although the prince is highly intelligent and used his temporary stand in for the king, to make sure that the kingdom was being run in a just way, teaching lessons to those who would do wrong to others, there were still things that he was ignorant of and had to learn himself. This was most notably seen in one particular dispute between a poor man and a sweet shop owner, who thought that the man should pay him for filling himself up on the smell of his sweets alone. The sweet shop owner’s argument was that “It takes a lot of butter and sugar to get that smell…that smell attracts many customers into the shop. If they all came just to smell my sweets and never buy any, I wouldn’t make any money”. When asked to explain himself, the poor man said that he couldn’t afford to buy the sweets and enough filling foods for his family to survive on, with the meager amount of money he had. This opens the Prince’s eyes considerably as “He didn’t realize that people had to choose between vegetables and sweets. He was surprised that Kapi decided to buy vegetables instead of sweets. I’d definitely choose the sweets he thought”. It was so endearing to see him learning like this and take it all in his stride to help make better informed decisions about things in the kingdom.
To conclude, this was a beautiful collection of short stories that focused on one of the sweetest Princes and his brash, but kindhearted friend. These stories were light-hearted and colourful, yet they contained some beautiful messages about doing the right thing and how we can teach others to treat one another better. There were so many lessons threaded throughout the stories, that the prince either gave to those who needed to change their ways, including his very own father – the King, or ones that he, himself, learnt along the way, “We have to teach him a lesson, my friend,” said Prince Veera. “we can’t let him continue to cheat anymore”. I had so much fun reading these and think that children would enjoy them just as much, as the stories were entertaining but had a graspable depth to them. The illustrations featured throughout was a really nice touch and I loved how they emphasized certain aspects of a story. I would completely recommend this to everyone.
November 27, 2021
A great collection of short stories, even as an adult I really enjoyed the lessons and riddles
January 17, 2020
I love reading folktales from other countries and so when this one came my way, I was very excited. And what a pleasure it is to read. Originally published as two separate books with four stores each under the titles A Dollop of Ghee and a Pot of Wisdom and A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice, they have been combined in this volume of eight stories altogether.
The stories center on Prince Veera, the son of King Breema, who ruled over his small Indian kingdom with fairness, kindness, and wisdom, and Suku, the son of a farmer who had won a scholarship to study with Prince Veera. Naturally, the two 10-year-old boys have become the best of friends.
As a kind and just king, the people in his kingdom knew they could come to King Breema with their problems and disputes and he would always find a way to help them. One day, when the King falls ill, Prince Veera and Suku ask if they may hold court that day instead of sending the people away. The first few cases they hear are simple and easy for the two boys to resolve, but as the day goes by they become more difficult. Once case involves a maker of sweet treats who wants to charge the man who stands outside his shop smelling the delicious scent of his sugary, buttery treats but who never buys anything. Another case involved a man who sold his well to another man, but now wants to charge the buyer for the water in the well.
Prince Veera and Suku both enjoy running the court whenever King Breema allows it, and the King is quite impressed with their collective wisdom. But when the Prince Veera's strict, elderly granduncle Raja Apoorva comes to visit, he is not impressed and thinks it is wrong from his young grandnephew to hold court, and especially with Suku, the lowly son of a farmer. When granduncle, who doesn't like crows one bit, puts their talent to the test challenging them to count the number of crows in the kingdom, have Prince Veera and Suku been outsmarted or can they outsmart the old uncle?
The eight stories included in Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship are basically light and easy, told in a very straightforward way and each has a simple moral that never feels preachy. The relationship between Prince Veera and Suku is one of affectionate companionship and respect, and although Suku is the son of a farmer, class isn't an issue here. Prince Veera loves to visit Suku's welcoming home as much as Suku loves going to the palace. This is a lesson we could all use.
Although there are not any notes about these stories and where they came from, they still have an authentically Indian quality to them culturally, and that is supported by the wonderful black and white spot illustrations by Uma Krishnaswamy.
Young readers will certainly enjoy these trickster tales and seeing how the two young friends deal with the often cunning disputes brought to them. Additionally, all the stories stand alone, making this a useful book for some great read alouds.
Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship is a solid collection of folktales that are sure to please young readers who are already enjoying chapter books.
This book is recommended for readers age 7+
This book was gratefully received by me from the publisher, Candlewick Press
The stories center on Prince Veera, the son of King Breema, who ruled over his small Indian kingdom with fairness, kindness, and wisdom, and Suku, the son of a farmer who had won a scholarship to study with Prince Veera. Naturally, the two 10-year-old boys have become the best of friends.
As a kind and just king, the people in his kingdom knew they could come to King Breema with their problems and disputes and he would always find a way to help them. One day, when the King falls ill, Prince Veera and Suku ask if they may hold court that day instead of sending the people away. The first few cases they hear are simple and easy for the two boys to resolve, but as the day goes by they become more difficult. Once case involves a maker of sweet treats who wants to charge the man who stands outside his shop smelling the delicious scent of his sugary, buttery treats but who never buys anything. Another case involved a man who sold his well to another man, but now wants to charge the buyer for the water in the well.
Prince Veera and Suku both enjoy running the court whenever King Breema allows it, and the King is quite impressed with their collective wisdom. But when the Prince Veera's strict, elderly granduncle Raja Apoorva comes to visit, he is not impressed and thinks it is wrong from his young grandnephew to hold court, and especially with Suku, the lowly son of a farmer. When granduncle, who doesn't like crows one bit, puts their talent to the test challenging them to count the number of crows in the kingdom, have Prince Veera and Suku been outsmarted or can they outsmart the old uncle?
The eight stories included in Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship are basically light and easy, told in a very straightforward way and each has a simple moral that never feels preachy. The relationship between Prince Veera and Suku is one of affectionate companionship and respect, and although Suku is the son of a farmer, class isn't an issue here. Prince Veera loves to visit Suku's welcoming home as much as Suku loves going to the palace. This is a lesson we could all use.
Although there are not any notes about these stories and where they came from, they still have an authentically Indian quality to them culturally, and that is supported by the wonderful black and white spot illustrations by Uma Krishnaswamy.
Young readers will certainly enjoy these trickster tales and seeing how the two young friends deal with the often cunning disputes brought to them. Additionally, all the stories stand alone, making this a useful book for some great read alouds.
Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship is a solid collection of folktales that are sure to please young readers who are already enjoying chapter books.
This book is recommended for readers age 7+
This book was gratefully received by me from the publisher, Candlewick Press
December 27, 2018
This is okay. There is nothing exceptionally wrong with it, but it just felt simplistic and slightly disconnected to me. There were enjoyable parts but I came away thinking that it was trying to Lloyd Alexander-ish but it wasn't quite clever enough. It didn't help that several of the problems and solutions (notably the baker who wants to charge for someone smelling his bread) have been in other stories, so it is not really original either.
The illustrations looked cute but they were kind of disconnected in my e-book copy.
***Thanks to Netgalley for my ARC***
The illustrations looked cute but they were kind of disconnected in my e-book copy.
***Thanks to Netgalley for my ARC***
July 2, 2018
The illustrations compliment the short stories that focus on Prince Jeera and his friend, not from the court, Suka, as they become Jeera's father (the king)'s underling in solving problems that the people of the neighboring villages bring the king to solve. They are modern folktales with an old-world approach and feel in a beautifully deep but humorous way that are perfect read alouds and culturally diverse.
October 4, 2022
Indian children grow up in homes fed on folk tales, so it is no wonder that Chitra Soundar is able to relate some excellent tales. What is wonderful about this book is that the duo of Chitra and Uma have combined to produce a delightful book. The pictures are drawn well enough that little ones will relate to them and the stories are told in such a way that children and adults can see the wisdom in them. The essential truth of triumph of good over evil is the mainstay of each story.
February 23, 2020
I did not expect to love this book so much, but it's fantastic. I'm trying to broaden my reading repertoire and thought stories from India sounded interesting-- but these were so creative and fun that I can't imagine a reader who wouldn't love them. We visit King Bheema's kingdom and meet his son- Prince Veera, and Veera’s best friend- Suku, who was poor farmer’s son. Together they hold court in the King's absence to solve some of their subjects most challenging conflicts with truly clever and wise solutions. Part trickster tale, part folktale these stories will have kids thinking about problems in new and creative ways. A very short read that will enlighten readers of all ages.
August 23, 2018
A short, fun collection of Indian folktales told through the eyes of the Prince and his farmer best friend. The boys are compassionate and clever. I enjoyed their friendship, the classic stories, and the Indian culture. Recommended, especially for a classroom.
January 3, 2019
Full of wonderful stories that we enjoyed sharing with our children and reading ourselves. A lovely book everyone should read.
May 5, 2019
I love folktale collections. This was a fun book to read!
May 30, 2022
Two boys solve odd problems in unique ways. Many a lesson is learned.
January 9, 2019
This book contains a collection of eight original stories inspired by traditional Indian folktales that offer young readers amusing tales chock full of engaging characters, valuable life lessons, and neat settings. Soundar does a great job of infusing traditional Indian folktales into fresh, relatable tales for today’s young readers, who will find Prince Veera and Suka’s adventures humorous and exciting.
May 8, 2020
Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India by Chitra Soundra, illustrated by Uma Krishnaswamy. 179 pages. Candlewick Press, 2019. $17.
Content: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
When King Bheema is not able to rule and make decisions for a while, the young prince, Prince Veera, and his best friend Suku get the chance to meet with people, listen to their grievances and to make a decision for those people. This book includes original folk tales from India.
I like the prince and his friend and how seriously they approach each case. They thought they would just have fun and that making decisions would be fun and easy. It interesting and fun to go with Prince Veera and his friend on all these adventures. It was a fast and enjoyable read and it made me giggle a few times. I liked the book and I will book talk it to my students.
Ellen-Anita, Librarian
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
Content: G
BUYING ADVISORY: EL (K-3), EL - OPTIONAL
AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE
When King Bheema is not able to rule and make decisions for a while, the young prince, Prince Veera, and his best friend Suku get the chance to meet with people, listen to their grievances and to make a decision for those people. This book includes original folk tales from India.
I like the prince and his friend and how seriously they approach each case. They thought they would just have fun and that making decisions would be fun and easy. It interesting and fun to go with Prince Veera and his friend on all these adventures. It was a fast and enjoyable read and it made me giggle a few times. I liked the book and I will book talk it to my students.
Ellen-Anita, Librarian
https://kissthebookjr.blogspot.com/20...
September 30, 2019
Local prince wrecks adults by using logic bombs and philosophy. Art was really nice too. A nice short story collection overall.
May 14, 2019
MANGOES, MISCHIEF, AND TALES OF FRIENDSHIP is based off of Indian folklore. It's broken up into two parts, but both share a common theme with the same characters. The first part is called A Dollop of Ghee and a Pot of Wisdom and the second one is A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice. Both stories follow Prince Veera and his friend Suku and include pictures that flow perfectly with the stories.
When his father becomes ill, Prince Veera is allowed to hold court and listen to the citizens complaints. With the help of Suku, Veera manages to outwit the citizens, while teaching a valuable lesson. Soon, Prince Veera and Suku become a witty duo who can best just about anyone in the name of justice. True and equal justice.
I really like that King Bheema is open about letting Prince Veera address the citizens. I also like how the king listens to Prince Veera and accepts when he's made an unfair judgment. Prince Veera is a wise person who takes other people's living situation into account. He doesn't judge people for their background and is open to listening to both sides of the story before thinking things through. While I'm not familiar with Indian folklore, I enjoyed these stories and how the reader can learn a valuable lesson from them.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of folklore, Indian culture, friendship, and justice.
This review can also be found on YABC: www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfiction/23...
When his father becomes ill, Prince Veera is allowed to hold court and listen to the citizens complaints. With the help of Suku, Veera manages to outwit the citizens, while teaching a valuable lesson. Soon, Prince Veera and Suku become a witty duo who can best just about anyone in the name of justice. True and equal justice.
I really like that King Bheema is open about letting Prince Veera address the citizens. I also like how the king listens to Prince Veera and accepts when he's made an unfair judgment. Prince Veera is a wise person who takes other people's living situation into account. He doesn't judge people for their background and is open to listening to both sides of the story before thinking things through. While I'm not familiar with Indian folklore, I enjoyed these stories and how the reader can learn a valuable lesson from them.
Final Verdict: I would recommend this to fans of folklore, Indian culture, friendship, and justice.
This review can also be found on YABC: www.yabookscentral.com/kidsfiction/23...
December 10, 2018
This duel collection sets eight tales in a small kingdom in India ruled by a fair king, whose paternal desire to teach his son, Prince Veera, lessons of wisdom and fairness, are continually met with great satisfaction. In the first story Veera and his best friend Suku eavesdrop on the court as the king listens to his subjects’ complaints—from the ridiculous to genuine— and hands down justly verdicts. In subsequent stories, Veera and Suku practice their court crafts as well, solving conundrums such as a man who wants to charge for the delicious smells coming from his bakery, a man who is charged with the crime of bad luck, and saving the kingdom’s crows from Great Uncle Apoorva’s suggestion of culling the flock. With each practiced testimony and verdict, Veera and Suku demonstrate understanding and compassion for the kingdom’s citizens. As the title implies, the motif of friendship between the two boys is peppered with familiar humor offering life lessons and exemplary edifications. I especially liked the humor and friendly banter between the boys that showed egalitarian friendship between a member of the royal family and a local youth.
September 9, 2018
Prince Veera and his best friend Suku are given a task to preside over the court of his father, King Bheema, after witnessing the court in action. Both boys feel as if they can lead the kingdom to a place of civil harmony with their clever ways. They quickly learn that it isn't always easy to make a fair decision, and that sometimes it takes a bit of wit. From the stolen jewels in the pickle jar, to the well and water dispute, these two boys are put to the test to find the most reasonable solution to every problem. Told through a series of eight adorable folktale-esque stories, this book is a perfect bedtime story to expand every child's cultural horizons.
I absolutely loved this book. Not only were the characters adorably relatable and clever, but the lessons that each individual chapter told provide perfect opportunities for teaching moments at home as well as in the classroom. Whether the lesson be on folktales, friendship, central message, or learning about the culture of India, this book is a perfect fit.
I absolutely loved this book. Not only were the characters adorably relatable and clever, but the lessons that each individual chapter told provide perfect opportunities for teaching moments at home as well as in the classroom. Whether the lesson be on folktales, friendship, central message, or learning about the culture of India, this book is a perfect fit.
December 3, 2018
Originally published in the UK as two separate books: A Dollop of Ghee and a Pot of Wisdom, and A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice, this collected volume of eight Indian folktales introduces readers to Prince Veera and his best friend, Suku, who stand in for Veera's father, King Bheema, and preside over cases brought to the king's court. Suku is a farmer's son who studies with the prince as a scholarship student, and Prince Veera is a clear-headed tween who respects his family and seeks his friend's opinion on matters. These "trickster tales" are inspired by traditional Indian folktales and have a wry sense of humor that kids will love. Together, the two will unmask a greedy man who leases a well to his neighbor - but charges him for the water; humble a merchant who attempts to charge people for enjoying the delicious smells coming from his sweets shop, and prove to the populace - including Veera's own father, the king - that bad luck is not contagious, nor can a man's bad luck rub off on anyone.
The book is illustrated throughout by award-winning author Uma Krishnaswamy, who creates beautiful, eye-catching artwork. Chitra Soundar's stories are small morality plays, with strong messages to deliver, delivered with humor and warmth. I love this book and can't wait to get it on my shelves. I'm looking forward to more Indian mythology, folk, and fairy tales in the coming year or two, especially with the success of mythology-based fantasy by Sayantani Dasgupta (The Serpent's Secret) and Roshani Chokshi (Aru Shah and the End of Time), Read a sample chapter courtesy of Candlewick Press here.
The book is illustrated throughout by award-winning author Uma Krishnaswamy, who creates beautiful, eye-catching artwork. Chitra Soundar's stories are small morality plays, with strong messages to deliver, delivered with humor and warmth. I love this book and can't wait to get it on my shelves. I'm looking forward to more Indian mythology, folk, and fairy tales in the coming year or two, especially with the success of mythology-based fantasy by Sayantani Dasgupta (The Serpent's Secret) and Roshani Chokshi (Aru Shah and the End of Time), Read a sample chapter courtesy of Candlewick Press here.
August 19, 2018
This collection of stories focus on King Bheema, son, Prince Veera and his friend, Suku. The tales are based on Indian folklore and are set within an imaginary kingdom. Readers get a wonderful taste of life and customs in India as people bring their problems to the king for arbitration.
The prince helps out in court now and then and always manages to outfox those who try to deceive or treat others unjustly. Prince Veera's friend, Suku (of a lower station) provides the eyes and ears of subjects in the kingdom. The friends often pair up to right wrongs and put arrogant people in their places. I highly recommend this book for the whole family!
Mixed throughout the stories are delightful illustrations that enhance the Indian flavor of the stories. Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship will be available on January 1, 2019.
Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship from NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
The prince helps out in court now and then and always manages to outfox those who try to deceive or treat others unjustly. Prince Veera's friend, Suku (of a lower station) provides the eyes and ears of subjects in the kingdom. The friends often pair up to right wrongs and put arrogant people in their places. I highly recommend this book for the whole family!
Mixed throughout the stories are delightful illustrations that enhance the Indian flavor of the stories. Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship will be available on January 1, 2019.
Disclaimer: I received a free digital copy of Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship from NetGalley for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
January 21, 2019
Thanks to Candlewick, I had fun reading this book out this month! Main characters Prince Veera and his companion, Suku, a farmer's son who won a contest to become educated at the palace, are center stage in these delightful 'trickster' tales from India. They sometimes take over Veera's father, King Bheema's court where they hear complaints from the commoners and try to solve the problems and/or conflicts. And at other times they discover problems out in the market, even helping Suku's Aunt Chandra. The different problems will be fun to read aloud to see if students can figure out how to solve them as Prince Veera and Suku do. And the cultural names and experiences with new foods and ways of living add to the interest. I enjoyed the stories. Originally published as two smaller books, now out in this one collection.
October 3, 2018
A wonderful collection of Indian tales that will delight both old and young readers. Eight tales are woven together by two characters, the prince and his friend, the farmer's son. Together the two of them love to get up to mischief, but love even more to put their thinking caps on and solve riddles. Though they are young, they are wise beyond their age and they delight in holding court and helping solve some of the commoner's tricky dilemmas. It also gives them a chance to occasionally outsmart the adults and prove them wrong. Each of the eight tales comes with an AHA moment when the two young boys are able to get themselves out of a sticky situation. Gorgeously illustrated, this children's book is sure to be a big hit!
October 8, 2018
Anticipating waiting for my Doctor’s appointment I threw this book in my bag ensuring that I would have something to read. Who would believe that you could really enjoy waiting in a doctor’s office?! The time flew by as I devoured the stories.
This is the most wonderful little book. Under two hundred pages, it is loaded with wisdom, common sense, and the notion of fair play. What makes this all the more charming is that it is all being dispensed by a ten-year-old Prince and his best friend.
I would recommend these stories to everyone of all ages as there is so much to be learned and reinforced. Buy a copy for a young person, read it to children, and take the time to enjoy all its messages.
Thank you Librarything, Candlewick Press and NetGalley for an ARC.
This is the most wonderful little book. Under two hundred pages, it is loaded with wisdom, common sense, and the notion of fair play. What makes this all the more charming is that it is all being dispensed by a ten-year-old Prince and his best friend.
I would recommend these stories to everyone of all ages as there is so much to be learned and reinforced. Buy a copy for a young person, read it to children, and take the time to enjoy all its messages.
Thank you Librarything, Candlewick Press and NetGalley for an ARC.
August 5, 2021
Prince Veera may be young, but he is wise beyond his years. Along with his best friend, Suku, he makes decisions about what is right and wrong both in and beyond the court of his father, King Bheema. The two friends are canny enough to spot those who would trick others out of their money as they mete justice to those who deserve it. These eight simple trickster tales inspired by traditional Indian folklore are best read one by one, savoring the plot and smiling at the attempts of adults to get over others in their lives or take advantage of the prince's youth and inexperience. The illustrations that appear throughout the book add touches of cultural authenticity to the book as well as visual appeal.
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February 21, 2020A delightful collection of trickster tales, expertly woven together through the adventures of two boys who, despite their different backgrounds, are best of friends. Highly recommend this book for your home library. Each story stands as its own chapter. Readers have the option of picking any story (based on title or illustrations that catch their eye) or starting at the beginning. To appreciate the friendship, definitely read the stories in order. Learn more about Prince Veera and Suku in the review.
June 4, 2020
Fun short stories about a clever young prince and his loyal companion. They usually involve the prince playing a trick on someone to teach them a lesson. Some of the tricks are well known and some were new.
I listened on audio and didn't notice until most of the way through that it was still on 2X speed, which I liked. The slower (normal) speed was much gentler and would be good at bedtime, but I went back to rapid talk. I'm concerned about judging all the books in this Cybils category fairly, since pictures are a big part of these chapter books. But then the voice was rich and evocative, so the others won't get that.
I listened on audio and didn't notice until most of the way through that it was still on 2X speed, which I liked. The slower (normal) speed was much gentler and would be good at bedtime, but I went back to rapid talk. I'm concerned about judging all the books in this Cybils category fairly, since pictures are a big part of these chapter books. But then the voice was rich and evocative, so the others won't get that.
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