A collection of stories featuring strong female figures from Hindu mythology, Buddhist tales, and others from the history and folklore of the Indian subcontinent. Each piece is accompanied by background information.
Book Description
Editorial Reviews
From School Library Journal
Grade 5 Up-This wonderful collection of folklore is a fine addition to any library. The author notes that many of the stories have been taken from Hindu or Buddhist tradition while others come from literature like the Panchatantra, thought to have inspired such works as the Canterbury Tales. The selections range from a woman who must use her wits to overcome a domineering mother-in-law to a princess who chooses the duties of her birthright over true love. All of the tales feature wise and powerful women, although they may not be wise and powerful when their stories begin. Krishnaswami includes a note at the end of each tale that describes its origin, how she came to know it, and its importance. Black-and-white line drawings are scattered throughout. The book concludes with a pronunciation guide, a list of characters, and source notes.
Carol Fazioli, The Brearley School, New York City
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Carol Fazioli, The Brearley School, New York City
Copyright 1999 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Kirkus Reviews
In this worthy anthology, Krishnaswami (The Broken Tusk, 1996) has collected and retold 18 traditional tales which originated in the Indian subcontinent, all with female protagonists. Many of these simply told stories feature a heroine who must stand up for her beliefs. The tales will fascinate those accustomed to European stories, for the heroinesinstead of ending up with the guy and the goldare frequently rewarded in less tangible ways, often gaining a measure of spiritual enlightenment. In one tale, a young princess comes to realize that strength and duty are more important than looks and marriage; in another, a group of royal ladies endure physical deprivation, eventually convincing the Buddha that they have the spiritual wherewithal to become disciples. Krishnaswami, selecting these stories from myriad sourcesancient literature, Hindu and Buddhist mythology, folktales and legendsdemonstrates genuine passion for the material; every story is followed by a helpful note that provides context and cites sources. More edifying than exciting, but often intriguing, these stories comprise a worthwhile resource. (b&w illustrations, glossary, sources) (Folklore. 11-14) -- Copyright ©1999, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.
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More About the Author
Uma Krishnaswami is the author of many books for children. She is also on the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA program in Writing for Children and Young Adults.
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Most Helpful Customer Reviews
8 of 8 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Passes the read-aloud test,
By A Customer
This review is from: Shower of Gold: Girls and Women in the Stories of India (Hardcover)
Our four-year-old daughter has been delighted with these stories since getting this book for Christmas. In our mixed Indian/Texan household, good children's books on Indian cultural topics are hard to come by and prized this book neither requires the extensive knowledge of Indian mythology that many books published in India presume, nor does it distance itself from India as the exotic "other" the way some western books do. The vocabulary is challenging for my four-year old but the stories hold her interest anyway, and the length of each tale is just right for bedtime reading. This is one we'll read and re-read.
3 of 3 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
True meaning of girl power,
By stackofbooks "stackofbooks" (Walpole, MA United States) - See all my reviews
This review is from: Shower of Gold: Girls and Women in the Stories of India (Hardcover)
A book that subtly hints at girls' empowerment is always a good thing in my mind. Combine that with tales set in India, and it gets better. Shower of Gold features Krishnaswami again showcasing her wonderful storytelling talent. Like her earlier book, Broken Tusk, this one too picks up a niche topic and tells stories about it. All of the stories in Shower of Gold are about courageous women or devis (goddesses) who have to overcome terrible odds to emerge triumphant. The stories also serve as a wonderful study in Indian culture. The dire conditions of some of these women though, may be startling to some little ones. Stories such as Rani of Jhansi are borrowed from history texts, while others such as the story of Savitri or Sita are from mythology. Adults will especially appreciate the notes at the end of each story that often includes pointers to more exhaustive readings on the subject. The larger question of course, looms here. "Some people wonder why, when goddesses in Hindu mythology play such magical and powerful roles, Hindu society has not given women more power." The author does hint at reasons but a more potent explanation is not really within the scope of this book. To her credit, Krishnaswami sticks to her agenda and delivers. Shower of Gold is a fresh look at the clichéd phrase, "girl power". For here are some bold strong girls and women who have effectively shown what it all means.
5.0 out of 5 stars
A treasured book in our home,
This review is from: Shower of Gold: Girls and Women in the Stories of India (Hardcover)
This book includes eighteen folk tales from India, including the story of Chitrangada, who chooses to rule her kingdom rather than remain the wife of a handsome prince; and Supriya, who teaches adults about compassion. Told in a simple, engaging style.I have included this book (plus many other feminist folk tales) in my online Gender Equality Bookstore.
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