The Five Fingered Family

I have always used storytelling & folktales in one way or another when I have worked with kids. The Five Fingered Family is a re-telling of an old tale from India, that highlights strength in unity. This particular version was written by my first yoga teacher, Shakta Khalsa, who brings the story new meaning by naming the families, using Punjab words for "Finger" and "greed". My daughter and i have loved this book, that Shakta was kind anough to autograph for me!

Other themes of greed, responsibility and overcoming obstacles are more subtle but still visible. The illustrations are artistic, colorful & absolutely beautiful!

Here is the Amazon description:

From the Punjab people of Northern India comes this lavishly illustrated, timeless tale of strength in unity. Papa Angulee and his family make up the five whose power lies in working together like fingers of a hand. When a very ugly troll tries to capture them, he becomes afraid of their united strength and gives them a treasure in exchange for his life. Everything goes wrong when a greedy neighbor decides to try his family's luck with the troll - and returns with a treasure far beyond jewels!

Shakta Kaur Khalsa's interpretation of this ancient story brings an important message to modern families. Siri-Kartar K. Khalsa's illustrations combine the spontaneity and naturalism of Persian composition in 16-18th century Mughal paintings and an Indian sense of colour from Rajput 18th century miniatures.

I use this book often for storytelling groups and yoga classes ages 5-10. The discussions that arise are so very interesting in that they show just how much kids understand.

Here is my humble recording of this beautiful story:

The Five Fingered Family (Recorded & read by Barbara Gini)


Order this wonderful book for your library here:

Contact: bg.bgini@gmail.com  

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