bookwatch

Courage first

The seige of Kiritgarh takes you into the heart of 17th-century Maharashtra, at a time when Shivaji was taking the Maratha kingdom to new heights. Inspired by the valour and heroism of these exciting times, the boys of Bhavanipur take up a noble cause. They decide to gift Shivaji an age-old treasure hidden in the ruined fort of Kiritgarh. Raghu too wants to join in the hunt, but with a limp foot, he is not sure if he will be up to the task. As the search begins, the tale turns into a gripping account of his struggle to overcome the limits of physical constraint. The Seige of Kiritgarh is children’s writer Sumathi Sudhakar’s second book after Paromita and has been brought out by Rupa & Co. The book is priced at a modest Rs 95.

on the run

Polly knows best

David carlisle, a veteran of over 100 burglaries in the Berkshire area of UK, picked up something unusual from the house of Diana Winter. After stealing antiques, jewellery and cash from her house, Carlisle picked up Monty, an African Grey parrot, on his way out. “After all, parrots can talk and I didn’t want this one to reveal my identity,” said the burglar when he was nabbed by the police. The stolen goods have been recovered, but since Carlisle had sold the bird, the hunt for Monty is still on.