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Author: Ashapurna Devi
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Genre: Children's Adventure Novels (Dashti Kishor Upanyas)
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Format: Hardcover
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ISBN: 9788177561197
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Pages: 496
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Weight: 618 grams
About the Book
Ashapurna Devi, though not primarily known as a children's writer, has created an enchanting world in her stories that resonate deeply with young readers. Her writing brings everyday domestic life into focus and transforms it into something extraordinary with her storytelling magic. Her works have a profound understanding of children's minds, their emotional depth, and the transition from the comfort of their homes to the larger world.
While she is best known for her adult literature, Ashapurna Devi’s contributions to children's literature, though limited, stand out with their heartfelt simplicity and deep insights into the child’s world. Her stories effortlessly blend humor and empathy, offering a nuanced portrayal of growing up. The stories are easy to understand but are rich with themes that explore the joy, curiosity, and adventures of children.
This collection features ten stories that highlight a range of topics, from family mysteries to whimsical adventures, all infused with a gentle yet insightful perspective on childhood:
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Rajkumarar Poshake (In the Prince's Costume)
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Gaj Ukiler Hatya-Rahashya (The Mystery of the Murder of Gaj Ukil)
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Bhooture Kukur (The Ghost Dog)
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Lanka Morich O Ek Mahamanob (Chili from Lanka and a Superhuman)
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Manusher Moto Manush (A Human Like Man)
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Chara Punte Gelo Nantupise (Nantupise Planted the Sapling)
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Bomar Cheye Bishom (More Dangerous than a Bomb)
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Sumudduro Dekha (The View of the Sea)
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Alloy Adityar Ichhapotro Rahashya (The Mystery of Alloy Aditya’s Letter)
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Harano Theke Prapti (Gaining from Losing)
About the Author: Ashapurna Devi
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Early Life: Ashapurna Devi was born in 1316 Bengali Era (1909 CE) into a conservative family and, as was common in her time, did not attend school or college. She received her education at home, which helped her develop a deep love for writing at a very young age.
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Literary Beginnings: Her literary career began at the tender age of thirteen when her first poem was published in Shishusathi magazine. Her first short story was also published in the same magazine, and it was titled Pasapasi (Alongside).
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Children’s Literature: For a significant period, Ashapurna Devi wrote exclusively for children, beginning in 1329 and continuing for the next fourteen years. Her works for children are marked by emotional depth and the ability to create relatable characters and situations.
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Adult Literature: She made her foray into adult literature in 1343, when her short story Prem O Proyojon (Love and Need) was published in Sharodiya Anandabazar.
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Awards and Recognition:
- Ashapurna Devi was the recipient of the Jnanpith Award for her immense contributions to literature.
- She also won the Rabindra Puraskar for her novel Pratham Pratishruti (First Promise), the first book in a trilogy, which also includes Subarnalata and Bakulkatha.
- In 1994, she was elected as a fellow of the Sahitya Akademi.
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Legacy: Ashapurna Devi passed away on July 13, 1995, leaving behind a legacy of profound literature that continues to inspire readers of all ages.
Conclusion
Dashti Kishor Upanyas by Ashapurna Devi is a collection of stories that offer children a window into the joys and struggles of growing up. With humor, warmth, and a deep understanding of the child’s perspective, Ashapurna Devi’s works are timeless and engaging. Her ability to reflect the inner world of children, while exploring themes such as adventure, mystery, and personal growth, makes these stories a valuable part of children’s literature. This collection is a beautiful blend of innocence, curiosity, and the wisdom of an author who understood the complexity of the human heart, regardless of age.
