A Timeless Collection of Folktales by India’s Most Beloved Storyteller

About the Book

“The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories” is a sparkling collection of over 30 timeless folktales retold by one of India’s most trusted and loved authors, Sudha Murty. Kings and misers, princes and paupers, wise men and foolish boys, and the funniest and oddest men and women come alive in this wonderful collection of stories. Each tale carries a warm lesson wrapped inside an adventure that readers young and old simply cannot put down.

About the Author

Sudha Murty is an author, philanthropist, educator, and engineer who completed her master’s in computer science from IISc, Bangalore. She is the founder of the Infosys Foundation and has over three hundred titles to her name, with her books translated into all major Indian languages and sold over 60 lakh copies across the country. She has been honored with the Padma Bhushan, the Padma Shri, and numerous other prestigious awards for her contributions to literature and society.

Who Is This Book For?

This book is a perfect pick for children aged 6 and above who love exciting stories with clever characters and happy endings. It is equally enjoyable for parents, grandparents, and teachers who want to share meaningful values with young readers in a way that feels natural and fun, not like a lecture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Is “The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories” suitable for young children? Yes, absolutely. The book is written in simple, clear English that children aged 6 and above can easily understand and enjoy. The stories are short, fun, and packed with moral values, making them great for bedtime reading or classroom use.

Q2. How many stories are in this book? The book features over 30 stories, including popular ones like “A Fair Deal,” “Nine Questions for a Princess,” and “The Wise King.” Each story is unique and stands on its own, so children can read them in any order they like.

Q3. Can adults enjoy this book too, or is it only for kids? This book is for everyone. You needn’t be a kid to read these, and that has always been the beauty of Sudha Murty’s books. The language is so simple yet leaves no room for complaints. Adults who love folk literature, Indian storytelling traditions, or simply a good moral tale will find this collection just as rewarding.

Q4. Who published “The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories” and when? The book was published by Penguin Random House India and is available in paperback format. It was first released in 2006 and has since been reprinted multiple times due to its widespread popularity across India and internationally.