The Wonders of the Jungle, Book One

A narrative children's book written in the early 20th century. This educational work is designed as a supplementary reader for early grammar school students, illustrating the lives of wild animals in their natural habitats. The book aims to engage young readers with fascinating stories about animals while imparting moral lessons and encouraging a love for natural history. At the start of the narrative, the author introduces the concept of the jungle as the natural home for various animals, contrasting it with the limited environments of zoos and circuses. The opening chapter details a midnight scene where a herd of elephants comes to a stream to drink, highlighting their social behavior and unique drinking method using their trunks. Ghosh paints a vivid picture of animal interactions, showcasing the orderly way elephants and other creatures navigate their environment. The text emphasizes the wisdom and nurturing instincts of animal parents, drawing parallels between animal behavior and human qualities, ultimately setting the stage for valuable lessons about empathy and community in the animal kingdom.