Viku to the Rescue: A Story from the Forests of India

Viku to the Rescue continues the story of Viku’s adventures begun in Viku and the Elephant. Viku lives at the edge of a forest in India. He becomes friends with an elephant by saving him from a snake. The elephant makes only two sounds – a happy trumpet and a sad cry – but the two friends understand each other very well. Stories of their adventures unfold quickly. In the first book, "Viku and the Elephant," they thwart the evil plans of ivory thieves. In Viku to the Rescue, Viku rescues his friend from elephant-catchers by sheer perseverance and his intimate knowledge of the forest. These Viku stories tell us about life in another culture.

This book works well as a read aloud story for young children, is suitable for early readers (2nd and 3rd grades), and is an excellent chapter book for 4th and 5th graders.

Praise from Librarians & National Award Winning Teachers

I loved "Viku to the Rescue" even more than the first book, "Viku and the Elephant"! I so identified with Viku wanting to save his friend and the obstacles he encountered.... It?s important that children get a sense of self reliance...lovely illustrations too. It is simply a beautiful story for children and the book would be useful in a classroom. In my opinion, it's a lot better than so many books on the market today.
– Feeny Watt, Former children's librarian, Santa Fe Public Library and currently reference librarian, Salt Lake County, Utah.

Debu Majumdar flawlessly interlaces the theme of friendship, culture, religious and family traditions of India in this charming, fictional tale. Readers sympathize with Viku as he faces multiple challenges in freeing his elephant friend and faithful companion, Haatee.
I recommend this book for readers of all ages. This magnificent story could be read in the classroom as whole group with discussion, small group team reading, or individually to instill a love for reading. It is also an excellent read aloud story for adults to share with younger children at home. The illustrations are beautiful, enhance the story's adventure, and children get an educational glimpse into the fascinating world of Viku and Haatee. Viku to the Rescue is truly a refreshing story where good triumphs over the greed of the elephant catchers, ending with heart-felt joy.
– Kathie J. Heusel, Milken Educator Award (2008), Great Falls, Montana and 2012 London Olympic Torchbearer.

Dr. Majumdar has methodically crafted a tale of two friends and, once again, has captured the attention of the reader with a strong message that stretches across all cultures...a wonderful work that is going to impact future generations.
– Rogelio Garcia, Milken Educator Award (2010), Dallas, Texas.

...another wonderful multicultural book with rich, unforgettable characters, a page turning plot that keeps readers craving for more and wonderful messages about loyalty and friendship. "Viku to the Rescue" also explores the theme of having the courage to make difficult decisions in order to do the right thing. As a teacher, I appreciate how the author provides in-depth questions at the end to help readers explore the story even further. I feel this story would be great to use with students in exploring character traits and developing inferential strategies.
– Martin Martinez, Milken Educator Award (2010), Gresham, Oregon

Viku has realistic persistence and determination that many young readers can relate to. His sense of urgency and adventure challenge the reader to reflect on what they would do in the same situation. We enjoyed Viku's compassion, ingenuity and persistence in helping Haatee escape! It shows kids that you may not have the answer on the first attempt, but if you keep at it, you will succeed in the end!
– Jennifer Smith, Milken Educator Award (2006), 29Palms, California