Tales from Dragon Country

Book excerpt: In this collection of Tales from Dragon Country Kusum Kapur has captured the spirit of Bhutan and its people. There are tales of adventure in the form of skirmishes with giants and demons, of tragedy in the stories of star-crossed lovers, and of humour in the exploits of Moten Phago and Dawa. While the folk tales about the mischievous monkey and the pesky toad provide plenty of fun, others like 'The Master-Craftsmen' and 'The Borrowed Gho' are shrewd comments on human relationships. The stories are told with sensitivity and reflect the affection and understanding which the author developed for the people of Bhutan during the two years of her stay in this beautiful mountain kingdom. Twenty-six striking illustrations by Tapas Guha enhance the enjoyment of these delightful tales.