Book review: Junglezen Sheru uses intelligent symbolism

This fable is about a ­forest which loses its leader, the lion, and his family to poachers. Dotted with ­little gems of wisdom, the book makes as much sense to kids as to the grown ups. It’s a ­clever ­allegory on social, ­political, educational and ­corporate state.

This fable is about a ­forest which loses its leader, the lion, and his family to poachers. The royal family is survived by an orphan cub, Sheru, who is taken in by a wise elephant. The elephant tries to educate Sheru. But the education ­system has ruined Sheru’s individuality.

The-cover-of-Junglezen-Sheru-by-Samarpan

The writer, a monk, has used intelligent symbolism and imagery. Dotted with ­little gems of wisdom, the book, with many morals, makes as much sense to kids as to the grown ups. It’s a ­clever ­allegory on social, ­political, educational and ­corporate state. It is an open-ended book, so complete it the way it suits you.

Title: Junglezen Sheru
Author: Samarpan
Publisher: Pan Macmillan India
Price: Rs 150