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Children's literature

Stolen Sun

Original titlerus. Краденое солнце · 1927
Prepared by the Litseller editorial team. Our goal is to share concise, accurate, and valuable book summaries for personal growth and education.

Summary

In the book «Stolen Sun» by Korney Chukovsky, a crocodile steals the sun, plunging the world into darkness. The animals in the forest are in a panic as it becomes cold and dark without the sun. Frogs, hares, bears, and other creatures try to retrieve the sun, but to no avail. Finally, a bear decides to confront the crocodile and bring back the sun. He battles the crocodile and defeats him, freeing the sun. The sun returns to the sky, and all the animals rejoice as the day becomes bright and warm again.

Stolen Sun

Main Ideas

  • Mutual aid and solidarity among animals in the face of a common crisis.
  • Abuse of power and its consequences, exemplified by the crocodile who stole the sun.
  • The importance of courage and determination in the fight for justice, as shown through the bear's actions.
  • Overcoming fear and uniting efforts to achieve a common goal.
  • The moral that goodness and justice always triumph over evil.

Main Characters and Their Development

  • Crocodile - the main antagonist who steals the sun, causing darkness and cold. In the end, he returns the sun when the animals unite to defeat him.
  • Bear - one of the main heroes who decides to bring back the sun. He shows leadership and bravery, organizing the animals to fight the crocodile.
  • Animals - a collective character that includes various creatures like hares, wolves, foxes, and others. Initially confused and frightened, they unite under the bear's leadership to retrieve the sun.

Style and Technique

«Stolen Sun» by Korney Chukovsky is a vivid example of children's literature written in verse. The style of the work is characterized by simplicity and accessibility, making it understandable for a young audience. The language of the story is rich with rhymes and rhythm, aiding in easy memorization. Chukovsky uses allegory and personification, depicting animals with human traits to convey important moral lessons to children. The structure of the story is linear, with a clear beginning, development, and resolution of the conflict. Literary devices such as repetition and sound imagery enhance the emotional impact and create a fairy-tale atmosphere. The work also includes elements of folklore, giving it a national flavor and making it close to Russian folk tradition.

Interesting Facts

  • The plot revolves around a crocodile swallowing the sun, causing darkness.
  • The main characters are animals who decide to bring back the sun to restore daylight.
  • The book is written in verse, making it easy and memorable for children.
  • The work is one of the most famous and beloved children's poems in Russian literature.
  • The book teaches children the importance of cooperation and mutual help, as the animals unite to bring back the sun.

Book Review

«Stolen Sun» by Korney Chukovsky is a classic children's fairy tale in verse that has won the hearts of many generations of readers. Critics note that the work is distinguished by its vivid and memorable language, making it accessible and engaging for children. The plot of the tale is simple yet filled with deep meaning: it teaches children the importance of friendship, mutual help, and justice. The story of animals uniting to retrieve the sun stolen by the crocodile symbolizes the power of collective efforts and the necessity of fighting for justice. Chukovsky masterfully uses rhythm and rhyme, making the reading experience light and enjoyable. Critics also highlight that the tale carries elements of humor and irony, making it appealing not only to children but also to adults. Overall, «Stolen Sun» is considered one of Chukovsky's best works, remaining relevant and beloved among readers.

Date of publication: 25 October 2024
Last updated: 6 November 2024
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Stolen Sun
Original titlerus. Краденое солнце · 1927