How do you feel when you see a travelling circus? Excited and intrigued? But think again, for you would never want to be a part of Madam Saleem's travelling circus. At least Ahmed did not want to.
A cruel owner, she made the boy slog for long hours making him carry water, firewood, sweep the caravans and feed the animals.
One day while collecting fire wood, Ahmed spots a golden egg. Scared that it would become cold he takes it back to the camp. But when Madam Saleem sees it she snatches it away and keeps it locked. Soon the egg hatches and a pretty girl comes out of it. She is named Aurelia.
Aurelia is no ordinary girl. Not only does she sing like a dream but she also grew feathers. But being caged makes her very sad.
Ahmed takes good care of Aurelia and he knows that he is her only friend. So he decides to free her. Getting the key to the golden cage is almost impossible but he succeeds.
He manages to free Aurelia but gets caught while trying to sneak the key back and is punished for it.
A beautifully scripted magical fairytale that keeps you wondering about Ahmed's fate till the very end. Simple words, easy flowing narrative and beautiful illustrations make it an easy read.
AHMED AND THE FEATHER GIRL by Jane Ray, Frances Lincoln Children's Books, Rs. 150
