by Queen of Fire, the third in the series by author Devika Rangachari is a sure treat for kids who might be interested in knowing about queens. However one must know we aren’t talking about ordinary queen here but someone who is even now remembered after hundred and fifty years.
Popular in folk songs, tales, movies, books, Rani Laxmibai wasn’t an ordinary soul. The story brings out the interesting aspects, dilemmas of the queen of having to been literally forced to leave her motherland, her palace, her kingdom amongst personal turmoil. She had become a widow at a young age and was a mother who wanted to fight for her rights, her child’s rights and for her people.
Queen of Fire, published by Penguin books, runs like a beautiful story that brings out the smaller nuances of what might have happened during the rebellious time of Laxmibai fighting against the mighty British. Also what’s interesting is the dilemma and how difficult it must have been for a young child who was uprooted from his home to become the adopted son of the queen, his life that was destined not to be adorned with riches or peace.
Gwalior and Jhansi have been on our list to travel and the story made us to hope we do get to visit the forts especially of Gwalior after we read about Laxmibai fighting her last from this magnificent fort.
The story could have been done with a bit of illustrations or pictures and I did miss it in the book. But the movie refreshed the memory, made us want to read more about Rani LaxmiBai.
The book is going to be a fabulous read for young ones who need to know about Indian icons, queens who dared to be different, true feminists smashed patriarchal rituals over a century ago. Mums and Stories recommends the book for kids in the age group of 9-12
Check our the author Devika Rangachari talking about the book here on our Youtube channel-
