book review of the jungle book written by rudyard kipling

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Mar 05, 2009 | ISBN 9780141325293 | Middle Grade (10 and up)

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About The Jungle Book

A classic story of friendship between man and beast. Saved from the jaws of the evil tiger Shere Khan, young Mowgli is adopted by a wolf pack and taught the law of the jungle by lovable old Baloo the bear and Bhageera the panther. The adventures of Rikki-Tikki-Tavi the snake-fighting mongoose, little Toomai and the elephant’s secret dance, and Kotick the white seal are all part of Mowgli’s extraordinary journey with his animal friends. Brilliantly introduced by bestselling author, Christopher Paolini.

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Also by Rudyard Kipling

About Rudyard Kipling

Rudyard Kipling was born in Bombay, India, to British parents on December 30, 1865. In 1871 Rudyard and his sister, Trix, aged three, were left to be cared for by a couple in Southsea, England. Five years passed before he… More about Rudyard Kipling

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Book Summary

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The Jungle Book

Rudyard Kipling

"The Jungle book" is a collection of topic-related stories written by English writer and Nobel-prize winner Rudyard Kipling. Stories were published in magazines within 1893 and 1894, each one followed with original illustrations, some of which were made by author's father.

Although the stories were written while living in Vermont, the author found inspiration in his childhood spent in India, where he returned for a couple of years after finishing college.

Allegedly, the stories were dedicated to his daughter who passed away at the age of six, not long after the first edition of the book was published.

The book consists of 14 chapters or stories about a boy named Mowgli who got lost in a jungle when he was just a little boy. When mother wolf found him and accepted as one of her own calves, Mowgli was brought up and raised among animals who were taking good care of him and taught him the laws of the jungle. He was living happily and carefree, only the tiger Shere-Khan was spreading the fear among the jungle animals, scaring Mowgli as well.

In this book animals are personified, becoming intelligent as humans, caring and emotionally attached to the little boy like he was the one of their own. Mowgli is capable of talking to them, as they were given the knowledge of human speech or Mowgli somehow succeeded in learning  their way of communication.

Animals described have high moral standards, laws which they obey to and teach Mowgli about them. Also, they preach respect  among all living beings and Nature itself. A righteousness of the animals can be used as a lesson for people's behavior. Besides vicious assassin tiger Sheer-Khan, humans are in the role of the leading villains in this book. Scaring the other living creatures, people are described as usurpers of nature without having  any respect towards other living beings; acting reckless, unaware  of consequences of their actions.

The book is actually an allegorical representation of modern life influenced and ruled by various politics. Book characters became extremely popular in 1967., after the book- inspired cartoon got released.

Mowgli and his friends Baloo the bear, panther Bagheera, python Kaa and scary tiger Sheer-Khan became modern day icons, recognized instantly by every child. Nevertheless, despite the famous cartoon, every child should read this interesting and educative book.

Here you will be able to read the summary of 3 stories: "Mowgli's Brothers", "Kaas Hunting", and "Tiger Tiger!"

Mowgli's Brothers

It was a hot summer night. The wolfs were resting during the hot afternoon and gathering strength to go hunting when the sun goes down. Everything was quiet until they heard something in the bushes. There was a strange creature. He was completely naked and barely knew how to walk. He was human.

He settled in with the little wolfs with no fear while showing an impressing strength because Shere-Khan was coming after him. Mother Wolf adored this little creature and decided to accept him but soon a conflict with Shere-Khan came along because he wanted to get his hands on the baby.

Shere-Khan was despised because he was only hunting starved animals and humans and that was not alright by the laws of the jungle. Even though Shere-Khan tried to get the baby out of the wolf's pack he couldn't do it because he faced mother wolf. She defended the baby.

For new decisions made in the pack, the whole pack was supposed to be present. Mother and father wolf had to speak with the pack about the baby. Once a new young member was introduced to the pack nobody could harm him.

Some wolf were furious because of the human introduced to their pack. Mowgli, which means frog, was accepted into the pack of the free people as the wolf were calling themselves and after that the bear Baloo and panther Bagheera stood up for him. Mowgli became a part of the pack. As the wolfs were growing so was he and he adapted to their lifestyle by learning from them. He studied The law of the jungle and Baloo was very helpful around that.

Shere-Khan still couldn't get over the fact that a human youngling slipped right through his paws and he often turned young wolf against him. Akela, an old wolf, was the end of his life path and very weak. He was afraid for Mowgli and everything that Shere Khan could do to him.

Bagheera was born amongst people so she knew a lot about their customs. She told Mowgli that he should go to the human world and get the red flower that animals are afraid of and that was fire. Soon a new full moon arrived and Shere Khan was getting ready to take down the old Akela.

That got Mowgli so angry that he decided to fight Shere Khan but what Shere Khan didn't know was that Mowgli had the fire. He set a branch on fire and he started to hit him with it. Shere Khan and his accomplices ran away from the fire.

Mowgli realized that the jungle wasn't safe for him after this battle. He had to say goodbye to his wolf family but he promised them that he will come back and bring them the skin of Shere Khan. The next morning was sad and Mowgli went searching for the creatures named people.

Kaas Hunting

While he still wasn't expatriated Mowgli had to learn a lot from the wolf and that led to several conflicts with his teacher Baloo. In the heat of the moment, he told him once that he spent some time in the woods with the Bandar-log.

They were monkeys with a very low status in the jungle. They did not have a leader nor did they stick to any law. They spent their days babbling and shouting meaningless songs. They did it all because they were trying to get some attention.

One of the monkeys came to the idea that it would be good to become friends with Mowgli because he knew how to do shelters of undergrowth. They even thought that they could become the most powerful ones in the jungle if he was their leader so they followed Baloo, Bagheera and Mowgli on their journeys through the jungle.

Around noon, they decided to get some rest. Mowgli fell asleep and the monkeys went down and kidnapped him. They ran away screaming and carrying Mowgli with them. They were proud that the attention of the panther Bagheera was theirs now. Even though the bear and the panther went after them they were fast as them.

They came up with a plan and talked with the enemy of the monkey, the constrictor Kaa. Kaa did not want to work with them at first but Baloo and Bagheera stated some insults that the monkeys said about him so he accepted their offer. With the help of a hawk, they found out that Mowgli was in the Cold lair. That was a torn up town.

One of the monkeys was giving a speech proudly where he stated that Mowgli's presence signifies a new start for them. Mowgli tried to teach them how to make shelters but he saw that the monkeys were losing interest. They started to pull each other tales and got restless so soon he realized that Baloo was right. He decided he should get back to his jungle.

Baloo, Bagheera, and Kaa already had a plan on how to get to Mowgli. All of the sudden a big battle started and everything got noisy. The monkeys realized that they were facing a stronger enemy so they backed down and the strong Kaa knocked down the wall and freed Mowgli. Even though Mowgli apologized he was punished for his behavior. He got beat up and they all returned to mother wolf.

Tiger! Tiger!

After he was expatriated from the jungle Mowgli didn't stop in the first village because it was too close to the jungle where so many of his enemies were. He crossed paths with a man who got so afraid of Mowgli that he called the priest. The similarity between this boy and the lost boy Nathoom was unbelievable so it was suggested that he should be adopted by the lost boys mom Messu.

For Mowgli, a new period of learning started. He was getting used to human customs, how to get dressed, work in the fields. A big problem for him was money. After 3 months of education, they named him a shepherd and he was taking the buffalos to the pasture. He also participated in the meeting of the village club.

A lot of stories were told at the meeting about the jungle and most of them were told by the hunter Buldeo. When Mowgli called him a liar he was ordered to take the buffalos far away from the village. He encountered The Gray brother. He was the oldest son of a mother wolf and he warned him that he wasn't safe here because Shere Khan could come after him.

There was a time for him to confront Shere Khan once and for all. He called to his assistance Akela who separated the buffalos, calves, and cows. They send the buffalos after Shere Khan who was resting after a meal and when he started to run he encountered the angry buffaloes and they killed him.

When Shere Khan was dead Mowgli had the chance to take his skin but the hunter Buldeo caught him and blacked mailed him because he wanted the skin of the wolf. Mowgli scared him with his wolf pack. Buldeo was terrified and told everyone in the village about Mowgli's sorcery. When Mowgli came to the village the villagers were throwing rocks at him. He has expatriated again and said goodbye to Messu.

He was bitter because of everything that happened to him. When he showed the wolf's Shere Khans skin they wanted him to be their leader but he refused. He said that the humans and the wolf rejected him so that from now on he will be hunting alone.

Place: jungle, village

Characters: Mowgli, Bagheera, Baloo, Shere Khan

Rudyard Kipling biography

Rudyard Kipling is an English writer born in 1865 in Bombay. His father was a professor in an art school. Even though he spent his early childhood in India he went to school in England. When he finished he studies he went back to India and worked as a journalist.

Rudyard led an exciting life filled with journeys and interesting situations. In 1894, he published his most popular work "The jungle book" which got its sequence as "The jungle book 2".

From 1902, and in his life was connected to England where he played an important role in the political and cultural life of his time. In 1907, he got a Nobel prize.

He was a supporter of order and discipline and he carried it as life lessons into his work. He considered that the law about British colonization was good and despite his literate work he was judged for being a supporter of the British imperialism.

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16 extraordinary facts about the jungle book – rudyard kipling.

Written by Mady Jaffe

Published: 27 Sep 2023

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

The Jungle Book, written by Rudyard Kipling, is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of readers for over a century. This beloved collection of stories, set in the lush and mysterious jungles of India, follows the adventures of Mowgli, a young boy who is raised by wolves and learns to navigate the wild alongside his animal friends.

However, there is much more to The Jungle Book than meets the eye. In this article, we will delve into 16 extraordinary facts about this iconic literary work. From the inspiration behind Kipling’s creation to the cultural impact it has had, there is a wealth of fascinating details surrounding The Jungle Book that will surely captivate fans and newcomers alike. So, get ready to embark on a journey through the jungle and discover the secrets behind this literary masterpiece!

Key Takeaways:

• Dive into the enchanting world of The Jungle Book, where Mowgli’s adventures in the Indian jungle come to life with captivating storytelling and unforgettable characters.
• Explore the enduring themes of identity, belonging, and loyalty in The Jungle Book, as Rudyard Kipling’s timeless classic continues to captivate readers of all ages.

The Jungle Book was published in 1894.

Rudyard Kipling’s beloved collection of stories about Mowgli and his adventures in the Indian jungle was first published in book form in 1894, captivating readers of all ages.

Kipling was inspired by his time spent in India.

Having lived in India as a child, Kipling drew inspiration from its vibrant wildlife and rich cultural heritage to create the enchanting world of The Jungle Book.

The Jungle Book includes both animal and human characters.

From the wise and protective Bagheera, to the mischievous and cunning Kaa, to the fearsome tiger Shere Khan, and the adventurous Mowgli himself, the story is filled with a fascinating cast of characters representing various facets of life in the jungle.

Mowgli’s name means “frog” in the wolf language.

In the wolf language created by Kipling, Mowgli’s name translates to “frog,” highlighting his unique and unconventional nature as a human child raised by wolves.

“The Law of the Jungle” is a recurring theme in The Jungle Book.

The Law of the Jungle represents the code of conduct followed by the animals in the story, emphasizing the importance of loyalty, respect, and survival instincts.

The Jungle Book has been adapted into multiple films.

Over the years, the beloved story has been brought to life on the silver screen in various adaptations, including the popular 1967 animated film by Walt Disney and the 2016 live-action remake.

It is one of Kipling’s most famous works.

The Jungle Book is considered one of Kipling’s greatest works, gaining worldwide recognition for its captivating storytelling and enduring themes.

The Jungle Book is a reflection of the British colonial era.

Kipling’s portrayal of the relationship between the animal characters and Mowgli can be interpreted as a metaphor for the interactions between the British Empire and the colonized territories during that time.

The Jungle Book addresses themes of identity and belonging.

Mowgli’s journey of self-discovery and his struggle to find his place in the jungle and the human world resonate with readers, prompting contemplation on the concepts of identity and where one truly belongs.

The phrase “man-cub” is used to refer to Mowgli.

In the story, the phrase “man-cub” is often used by the animal characters when referring to Mowgli, emphasizing his unique status as a human child raised among animals.

The Jungle Book is a classic example of anthropomorphism.

Kipling skillfully anthropomorphized the animal characters, giving them human-like qualities and behaviors, making them relatable to readers of all ages and backgrounds.

Kipling’s illustrations in The Jungle Book added to its charm.

In addition to his captivating storytelling, Kipling also provided delightful illustrations for The Jungle Book, further immersing readers in the enchanting world of Mowgli and his companions.

It is a collection of stories, not a single novel.

The Jungle Book is actually a collection of short stories featuring Mowgli and other characters, each with its own unique adventures and life lessons.

The Jungle Book has inspired numerous adaptations in other media.

Aside from films, The Jungle Book has also been adapted into stage plays, television series, and even video games, showcasing its enduring popularity and cultural impact.

The Jungle Book continues to be loved by readers of all generations.

With its enduring themes, memorable characters, and captivating storytelling, The Jungle Book remains a beloved classic that transcends time and has captured the hearts of readers for over a century.

Rudyard Kipling’s legacy lives on through The Jungle Book.

Through The Jungle Book, Kipling has left an indelible mark on literature, inspiring generations of readers with his magical storytelling and timeless characters.

In conclusion, Rudyard Kipling’s “The Jungle Book” is a timeless classic that continues to captivate readers of all ages. The extraordinary world of Mowgli and his animal companions transports us to a vivid and enchanting landscape of adventure and self-discovery. Through his masterful storytelling, Kipling explores themes of identity, belonging, and the delicate balance between humans and nature. The enduring popularity of “The Jungle Book” is a testament to the enduring power of its characters and the universal themes it explores. Whether you are new to the story or a lifelong fan, diving into the pages of “The Jungle Book” is sure to be a thrilling and unforgettable experience.

1. Who is the author of “The Jungle Book”?

Rudyard Kipling is the author of “The Jungle Book”.

2. Is “The Jungle Book” a true story?

No, “The Jungle Book” is a work of fiction. However, Kipling drew inspiration from his experiences in India and his fascination with the wildlife and culture of the region.

3. When was “The Jungle Book” first published?

“The Jungle Book” was first published in 1894 as a collection of stories.

4. Are the stories in “The Jungle Book” connected?

Yes, the stories in “The Jungle Book” are interconnected and revolve around the adventures of Mowgli, the “man-cub” raised by wolves.

5. Are there any adaptations of “The Jungle Book”?

Yes, there have been numerous adaptations of “The Jungle Book”, including films, stage plays, and animated TV shows. The most famous adaptation is the 1967 Disney animated film.

6. What are the key themes explored in “The Jungle Book”?

Key themes in “The Jungle Book” include identity, belonging, the power of nature, and the delicate balance between humans and the animal world.

7. Is “The Jungle Book” suitable for all ages?

While “The Jungle Book” is generally considered a children’s book, it has universal appeal and can be enjoyed by readers of all ages.

8. Are there any sequels to “The Jungle Book”?

Yes, Kipling wrote a sequel to “The Jungle Book” called “The Second Jungle Book”, which was published in 1895.

9. Why is “The Jungle Book” considered a classic?

“The Jungle Book” is considered a classic due to its enduring popularity, rich storytelling, and exploration of timeless themes that resonate with readers throughout the ages.

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