The stories in this collection capture the varied scents and colours of India in the days of the Raj. Magic and religion, art and life, politics and society, combine into one special stroke of genius in Kipling's imaginative canvas, bringing the short story and the poem together. These tales hold a tremendous appeal for children and adults alike, who can look forward to a dazzling array of incidents and characters, choreographed to perfection.

Rudyard Kipling was born in Bombay, India, on December 30, 1865. He spent his early years in India, and came in contact with its culture and tradition, traces of which can be found in most of his work. His England years were marked by desperation and misery and he returned to India in 1882. Best known for The Jungle Book, and Kim, he is recognized as a master artist in various genres including poetry, short story and the novel.