Title: How the Cobra Got His Spectacles – By Stephen Alter (Published by Rupa Publications India)

Uncover the magical, mythological, and natural secrets behind one of the most distinctive markings in the animal kingdom. Published by Rupa Publications India, How the Cobra Got His Spectacles by celebrated naturalist and master storyteller Stephen Alter is an enchanting, beautifully woven tale that answers a classic question of the Indian wilderness: how did the grand Indian cobra get the unique, round spectacle-shaped pattern on its regal hood?

Set deep within a dense forest along a tranquil riverbank, the story follows a young naga (cobra) and an old hermit who live together in peaceful harmony. The tranquility of their lives is suddenly broken when a mischievous monkey slips into their clearing and steals the hermit's cherished spectacles. Determined to help his companion, the young cobra sets off on an adventurous quest through the wilderness to track down the thief and recover the stolen glasses.

Because snakes cannot rely on traditional eyesight or hearing the way mammals do, the young cobra must navigate the complex forest floor using his unique biological senses. Relying solely on his forked tongue to "taste" and sniff out the chemical scents floating in the air, he embarks on an unforgettable journey. As he traverses the jungle, he meets an array of curious woodland creatures, each experiencing the ecosystem in their own distinct way. When twilight fades into night, the cobra listens to the high-pitched squeaks of bats using echolocation to find their way through the pitch-black canopy, providing young readers with a brilliant, narrative introduction to animal biology.

Stephen Alter, renowned for his deep, unparalleled understanding of Indian flora and fauna, seamlessly blends classic folklore with accurate wildlife science. Moving past typical animal caricatures, the book gently teaches children about specialized reptilian adaptations—like how a snake uses its tongue and the Jacobson’s organ to sense its surroundings—making it a marvelous educational bridge for young minds.

Perfect for young wildlife enthusiasts, curious students, and families looking for an engaging read-aloud book, this delightful volume features: