The correct answer is 4. The Village by the Sea, and here’s why:
Anita Desai, an acclaimed Indian author, is known for her works exploring deep psychological, social, and cultural issues, primarily through adult fiction. However, The Village by the Sea (1982) is one of her works that stands out as a children’s novel.
Here’s why it qualifies as a children’s book:
The Village by the Sea:
Target Audience: This book is specifically written for younger readers, typically aimed at children in their early teens.
Themes: The novel addresses themes relevant to children, like the transition from childhood to adolescence, family struggles, personal growth, and hope. It’s a simple yet profound coming-of-age story set in a coastal village in India.
Narrative Style: The narrative is told through the perspective of a young girl named Hari, and it is straightforward in terms of language and character development, making it more accessible to younger readers compared to Anita Desai’s more adult-oriented works.
Plot: The story revolves around two siblings, a brother and a sister, and their lives in a small coastal village. It focuses on their responsibilities, their relationship with each other, and their hope for a better future. This makes it relatable to children who may be experiencing similar growth and challenges.
Why not the other options?
Fire on the Mountain (1977): This is a serious, adult-oriented novel that delves into themes of isolation, emotional struggles, and the complexities of human relationships.
Fasting, Feasting (1999): This is an adult novel focusing on the complexities of family dynamics, societal expectations, and individual desires, mainly within the context of Indian culture. It deals with sensitive and mature themes.
The Zigzag Way (2004): This is a novel that explores themes of historical exploration, identity, and personal connection, aimed at adult readers.
In summary, The Village by the Sea is an exception in Anita Desai's body of work because it is written specifically for children, which is why it is considered the correct answer.
Year-wise PYQs
