Words and pictures have, from ancient times, been the means of communication the world over.

Despite the invasion of the digital world today.

they continue to impact our psyche, to give us the satisfaction of reaching out to others.

This book is Balvihar's way of connecting with our readers, not just with FACTS, but also with FUN. And don't forget, it is as much for grown-ups, who still have a child lurking, somewhere within!

The characters in this book leap at you, expressively and persuasively, making you want to bond with them instantly.

Learning becomes drudgery for kids and knowledge, a load, if they have to know facts by rote.

But if the same facts are presented amusingly, through their animal buddies, they create an impact and stay stored.

That is why we have Pinky the Pig or Sharmila the Sheep, or Gadha the Donkey, providing kids with 'edutainment.'

This is the first offering of Balvihar in its 50th year, to all its precious readers round the globe.

In keeping with the legendary warmth and wit of our matchless master, Pujya Gurudev, Swami Chinmayananda, the characters in this book are friendly, funny and brainy.

The illustrations speak of Bharati Sukhatankar's creativity.