This book was a great surprise and a joy to read. It is a book full of rich, witty tales from India that are both entertaining and educational. While filling our world with colourful stories steeped in Indian culture, the reader also learns lessons of honesty, kindness and humility. Prince Veera and his best friend Suku are young but wise beyond their years. When they are allowed to hold court while King Bheema is away on a hunting trip, they must make some tough decisions to rule fairly and outwit those who are trying to be devious for their own ends. They must face thieves, liars, and tricksters of all kinds. In doing so, they prove to be worthy future leaders. Prince Veera and Suku must also help the King solve some dilemmas of his own.
I read this book to my class of 8 year olds who absolutely loved it! Each day they begged to read more. This book is perfect for our multicultural society. It is written in such a way that the reader feels transported into the story to become part of it. The cover illustrations by Uma Krishnaswamy are beautifully drawn and intensely colourful.
5 Stars for A Jar of Pickles and a Pinch of Justice.