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The Great Indian Safari
96 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
About the author
Arefa Tehsin
21 books21 followersArefa grew up treading jungles with her naturalist father. She was often found trying to catch a snake or spin a yarn. She’s the author of several fiction and non-fiction books and contributes to dailies and magazines like Conde Nast Traveller, The Indian Express, The Hindu, Deccan Herald, Scroll.in and Outlook Money. Her picture book 'The Elephant Bird' was read at 3200+ locations in India from the slums to the Presidential library on the International Literacy Day, 2016 and translated in more than 40 languages. A few schools in India and Sri Lanka are using her books as textbooks and supplementary readers. Her books have been shortlisted for awards like The Asian Prize for Fiction, FICCI Best Book of the Year Award, NEEV Book Award and The Hindu-Goodbooks Best Author Award. She was appointed the Honorary Wildlife Warden of Udaipur district and has pursued nature conservation through her writings and columns. Find out more on www.arefatehsin.com
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Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
August 6, 2025
The Great Indian Safari by @arefa_tehsin
Non-Fiction/ Wildlife (Children's book)
Age: 7- 12years
@penguinsters
Ebook available
Pages 87
Let's begin our jungle adventure with The Great Indian Safari. And guess what? Our guide is not a human but a jungle crow. Meet Charred the Bard who is our witty and winged guide. He is a bird and Bard too. With a hat on the head and binoculars in the neck he is ready to take us to the wild lands of India. CAW- CAW!
Our guide, the crow takes us on adventures to several places like ranthambore to see the tigers, keoladeo national park to see the peacocks, Jim Corbett national park to see the gentle giants, national chambal sanctuary to see one of the longest crocodile and many more such places.
Our guide first makes us aware of the Safari rules then tells us where we are and to see what animal. He educates us about the diet, size, average life, scientific names, special facts of animals. He also tells us about the top places to spot a particular animal. Along the way he also jokes a lot and recites poems.
Our guide is also very upset with whoooo-mans. He points out that humans are not kind to the Indian forests and its animals for humans cut the forests and kill animals for their own benefit.
#bookreview
This is a super informative and educational read. Children learn about various animals and their habitats and they come to know about various national parks or sanctuaries in India. They learn the importance of conservation of wildlife & nature. With crow as the guide the storytelling becomes fun which enables the children to grasp the information easily and they will always remember it. Indeed a fun way of teaching children. If only my school textbooks were this interesting. Such books also evoke an interest in children to explore the nature and wildlife. It makes them curious of a world they might not have experienced yet. I am sure after reading this many children will tell their parents to take them to Safari. The book has colourful glossy pages with beautiful eye catching illustrations. Language is easy. Overall a lovely read.
Non-Fiction/ Wildlife (Children's book)
Age: 7- 12years
@penguinsters
Ebook available
Pages 87
Let's begin our jungle adventure with The Great Indian Safari. And guess what? Our guide is not a human but a jungle crow. Meet Charred the Bard who is our witty and winged guide. He is a bird and Bard too. With a hat on the head and binoculars in the neck he is ready to take us to the wild lands of India. CAW- CAW!
Our guide, the crow takes us on adventures to several places like ranthambore to see the tigers, keoladeo national park to see the peacocks, Jim Corbett national park to see the gentle giants, national chambal sanctuary to see one of the longest crocodile and many more such places.
Our guide first makes us aware of the Safari rules then tells us where we are and to see what animal. He educates us about the diet, size, average life, scientific names, special facts of animals. He also tells us about the top places to spot a particular animal. Along the way he also jokes a lot and recites poems.
Our guide is also very upset with whoooo-mans. He points out that humans are not kind to the Indian forests and its animals for humans cut the forests and kill animals for their own benefit.
#bookreview
This is a super informative and educational read. Children learn about various animals and their habitats and they come to know about various national parks or sanctuaries in India. They learn the importance of conservation of wildlife & nature. With crow as the guide the storytelling becomes fun which enables the children to grasp the information easily and they will always remember it. Indeed a fun way of teaching children. If only my school textbooks were this interesting. Such books also evoke an interest in children to explore the nature and wildlife. It makes them curious of a world they might not have experienced yet. I am sure after reading this many children will tell their parents to take them to Safari. The book has colourful glossy pages with beautiful eye catching illustrations. Language is easy. Overall a lovely read.
August 28, 2025
Arefa Tehsin’s The Great Indian Safari is more than just a children’s book about animals—it’s a lively expedition across the varied landscapes of India, where science and storytelling walk hand in hand. With Charred, the quirky and endearing guide, young readers are invited to peer into forests, deserts, mountains, and seas, meeting creatures that are as fascinating as they are unusual.
The strength of this book lies in its seamless blending of natural history with accessible narration. The facts are not heavy-handed; instead, they are couched in humorous anecdotes and vivid imagery that keep children engaged while subtly nurturing ecological awareness.
Tehsin’s background in wildlife and nature writing is evident in the accuracy of details, yet she avoids sounding encyclopedic. This balance makes the book approachable for young explorers while still being a resource that educators and parents can trust.
Mohit Suneja’s illustrations add another layer of magic. The animals are rendered with warmth and personality, encouraging empathy and curiosity rather than fear. His artwork does not merely decorate the text—it amplifies the playfulness of Charred’s voice, making each encounter memorable.
What stands out most is the book’s ability to instill wonder. Whether it’s the grandeur of elephants or the understated importance of termites, The Great Indian Safari encourages readers to see all creatures as part of a shared ecosystem. It fosters respect for wildlife while still celebrating the joy of discovery.
The Great Indian Safari is an insightful introduction to India’s natural heritage, crafted with wit, warmth, and wisdom. It is ideal for children aged 7–12 but equally enjoyable for parents and teachers who wish to share the joy of nature with young readers.
In short, it is both an entertaining read and an educational treasure—one that can inspire future naturalists while keeping bedtime stories lively.
Must read♥️♥️
The strength of this book lies in its seamless blending of natural history with accessible narration. The facts are not heavy-handed; instead, they are couched in humorous anecdotes and vivid imagery that keep children engaged while subtly nurturing ecological awareness.
Tehsin’s background in wildlife and nature writing is evident in the accuracy of details, yet she avoids sounding encyclopedic. This balance makes the book approachable for young explorers while still being a resource that educators and parents can trust.
Mohit Suneja’s illustrations add another layer of magic. The animals are rendered with warmth and personality, encouraging empathy and curiosity rather than fear. His artwork does not merely decorate the text—it amplifies the playfulness of Charred’s voice, making each encounter memorable.
What stands out most is the book’s ability to instill wonder. Whether it’s the grandeur of elephants or the understated importance of termites, The Great Indian Safari encourages readers to see all creatures as part of a shared ecosystem. It fosters respect for wildlife while still celebrating the joy of discovery.
The Great Indian Safari is an insightful introduction to India’s natural heritage, crafted with wit, warmth, and wisdom. It is ideal for children aged 7–12 but equally enjoyable for parents and teachers who wish to share the joy of nature with young readers.
In short, it is both an entertaining read and an educational treasure—one that can inspire future naturalists while keeping bedtime stories lively.
Must read♥️♥️
August 30, 2025
I’ve always loved animals, so this book felt like it was made just for me! This is like a magical ticket to the wild. With Charred as my guide, I got to travel through forests, deserts, rivers, and even the deep sea—all without leaving my room. Every page had a new animal waiting: a tiger ready to roar, a gharial chilling lazily, a monkey full of mischief, and even a giant whale shark!
The best part is how the animals feel alive, almost like they’re talking to you. Charred makes the journey funny and exciting, slipping in cool facts in between jokes. I didn’t feel like I was learning—I felt like I was on an adventure. And the pictures? They’re so bright and detailed that sometimes I just stopped reading and stared at them.
What I liked most is that the book surprises you. One moment you’re laughing at a monkey’s tricks, and the next you’re amazed by an animal you didn’t even know existed. It’s the kind of book that makes you curious and keeps you turning the pages because you don’t know what wonder is coming next.
For me, this is more than just a story—it’s an experience. It made me smile, laugh, and even dream about going on a real jungle safari one day. If you’re someone who loves animals (or even if you don’t yet), I think this book will make you fall in love with them.
The best part is how the animals feel alive, almost like they’re talking to you. Charred makes the journey funny and exciting, slipping in cool facts in between jokes. I didn’t feel like I was learning—I felt like I was on an adventure. And the pictures? They’re so bright and detailed that sometimes I just stopped reading and stared at them.
What I liked most is that the book surprises you. One moment you’re laughing at a monkey’s tricks, and the next you’re amazed by an animal you didn’t even know existed. It’s the kind of book that makes you curious and keeps you turning the pages because you don’t know what wonder is coming next.
For me, this is more than just a story—it’s an experience. It made me smile, laugh, and even dream about going on a real jungle safari one day. If you’re someone who loves animals (or even if you don’t yet), I think this book will make you fall in love with them.
September 3, 2025
review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2025/0...
The Great Indian Safari is a colourful, engaging, and wonderfully informative nonfiction book that takes young readers on an adventurous journey through India’s rich wildlife sanctuaries. It doesn’t just list facts—it brings them alive in a way that is exciting, accessible, and unforgettable for children.
One of the most delightful aspects of the book is its narration. The entire safari is guided by a witty and talkative jungle crow. This narrative choice makes the book highly entertaining, and for parents or teachers who enjoy reading aloud in different voices, it becomes an absolute treat—even for kids who cannot yet read on their own. The crow’s voice adds a playful personality to the text, transforming dry facts into engaging storytelling.
Each chapter transports readers to a different sanctuary, introducing them to the animals that these places are famous for. But it doesn’t stop there—children get a complete picture of each animal, including its scientific name, family, natural habitat, diet, and fascinating quirks that make the animal unique. To round it off, every chapter begins with a set “Safari Rules” and ends with a charming rhyme or poem dedicated to the featured animal.
What makes this book stand out is how well it balances knowledge with fun. Tricky words and concepts like mammal, herbivore, carnivore, reptiles, and cold-blooded animals are explained in the simplest, clearest way possible. Add to that the clever puns and laugh-out-loud jokes sprinkled throughout the text, and you’ve got an irresistible package. Here’s one that had us giggling:
“Do you know why cobras make terrible spies?
Answer: Because they can’t keep their hoods down!”
Beyond the humor and animal facts, the book also weaves in an important underlying message. Every chapter highlights the ways in which human actions are harming wildlife and emphasizes what we can do to conserve and protect these species. It never feels preachy; instead, it plants seeds of empathy and responsibility in young minds.
My child absolutely loved journeying through each chapter. She was so immersed in the “adventure” that by the end, she declared she now wants to visit all the wildlife sanctuaries mentioned in the book.The Great Indian Safari transforms everyday information that one could easily find online into something much more memorable and meaningful. It not just helps kids retain details far longer, while also sparking curiosity and a genuine love for the natural world.
This book is more than just a fun read—it’s a resource. It deserves a spot not only in every home library but also in schools, where it can enrich classrooms and inspire children to learn about, appreciate, and safeguard the incredible biodiversity of India.
Overall, The Great Indian Safari is a fun-filled, informative, and inspiring wildlife adventure that is perfect for children ages 6+.
The Great Indian Safari is a colourful, engaging, and wonderfully informative nonfiction book that takes young readers on an adventurous journey through India’s rich wildlife sanctuaries. It doesn’t just list facts—it brings them alive in a way that is exciting, accessible, and unforgettable for children.
One of the most delightful aspects of the book is its narration. The entire safari is guided by a witty and talkative jungle crow. This narrative choice makes the book highly entertaining, and for parents or teachers who enjoy reading aloud in different voices, it becomes an absolute treat—even for kids who cannot yet read on their own. The crow’s voice adds a playful personality to the text, transforming dry facts into engaging storytelling.
Each chapter transports readers to a different sanctuary, introducing them to the animals that these places are famous for. But it doesn’t stop there—children get a complete picture of each animal, including its scientific name, family, natural habitat, diet, and fascinating quirks that make the animal unique. To round it off, every chapter begins with a set “Safari Rules” and ends with a charming rhyme or poem dedicated to the featured animal.
What makes this book stand out is how well it balances knowledge with fun. Tricky words and concepts like mammal, herbivore, carnivore, reptiles, and cold-blooded animals are explained in the simplest, clearest way possible. Add to that the clever puns and laugh-out-loud jokes sprinkled throughout the text, and you’ve got an irresistible package. Here’s one that had us giggling:
“Do you know why cobras make terrible spies?
Answer: Because they can’t keep their hoods down!”
Beyond the humor and animal facts, the book also weaves in an important underlying message. Every chapter highlights the ways in which human actions are harming wildlife and emphasizes what we can do to conserve and protect these species. It never feels preachy; instead, it plants seeds of empathy and responsibility in young minds.
My child absolutely loved journeying through each chapter. She was so immersed in the “adventure” that by the end, she declared she now wants to visit all the wildlife sanctuaries mentioned in the book.The Great Indian Safari transforms everyday information that one could easily find online into something much more memorable and meaningful. It not just helps kids retain details far longer, while also sparking curiosity and a genuine love for the natural world.
This book is more than just a fun read—it’s a resource. It deserves a spot not only in every home library but also in schools, where it can enrich classrooms and inspire children to learn about, appreciate, and safeguard the incredible biodiversity of India.
Overall, The Great Indian Safari is a fun-filled, informative, and inspiring wildlife adventure that is perfect for children ages 6+.
August 13, 2025
hop on this great indian safari with three guides - witty tehsin, your knowledge partner; superb suneja, your perfect cameraman; and charred the bard, your very own poet - to brave through the jungles, deserts, and rainforests across india, the himalayas, and the indian ocean creating memories as you meet some of the most fascinating creatures that exist. the witty narration, evocative artwork, emphasis on the crucial part wildlife plays in this ecosystem of which we are also a part, and our role as humans (whooo-mans, as the bard likes to call us) in its conservation really takes your breath away. an absolutely beautiful syzygy of an author's way with words, an illustrator's confidence with his brushstrokes, and a reader's finally content heart!
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews