The ability of jackals, rabbits, birds, elephants and many more animals to talk like humans in the fabled tales of Panchatantra have fascinated people over time. No doubt the Panchatantra is the most frequently translated literary work with over 200 versions in more than 50 languages. Recently a new version of the book by Sampurna Chattarji — The Three Brothers and The Flower Of Gold — hit the shelves across the country.

Sampurna's version of the is believed to have some modern elements in the stories which make things easier for today's kids to relate with the ancient tales. Here is what the kids had to say about the book:

Shreya Chheda (12 years)

From silly critters to mighty elephants, from the blissful oceans to majestic mountains and from the weaver to Lord Vishnu, this compelling collection of familiar and unfamiliar folk tales forms the first complete Panchatantra for the young readers of the 21st century. It grabs your attention and its humour and witty comments and happenings will grip you. The value of true friendship, the aura of achievement and the shadows of fear and hatred is expressed in child-friendly language with a hint of childish innocence and carefree attitude in this book.

The illustrations are really cool too. Typical Indian motifs blend together with pictorial sketches form a classic masterpiece of its own kind.

Anand Benegal (11 years)

The stories are descriptive and they explain the mood of the story and the characters and the atmosphere where the entire situation is taking place. It is much better than the other Panchatantra versions because it is written in the first person and therefore is easier to understand.

The stories also show you that situations change and sometimes, nothing is what it seems. The only flaws in the book are the illustrations. They are a little meaningless. One will easily ignore the illustrations. They should have been more colorful and less small. After you read this Panchatantra, you'd wish folktales were written like this.

Krishin Jethwani (13 Years)

Uber-cool, Amazer and V-boy the — three spoilt boys of a king are bored of studing and just want to have some fun. The book is a good read for all kids. There is thrill and excitement and some tense moments which keep you gripped. By creating a misunderstanding between the lion and the cow, they think that that kings but the friendship of the lion and cow prevails and the jackals are banished from the kingdom and told never to return. The book also has a good lesson to teach us kids as it transforms the lazy and useless children of the king into mature and responsible princes.Seen here and below, colourful illustrations depicting tales from the Panchatantra

Ankit Ajmera/ DNA-Daily News & Analysis Source: 3D Syndication