Jar 39

By Sakuntala Gananathan

The girls feel sorry for an innocent boy who is in the clutches of the bandit chief. Much against his will, they send White Rabbit to Ali Baba’s house. His first attempt misfires and he is forced to postpone his trip back to Wonderland. This triggers off a series of dilemmas. Unless he completes his mission, he cannot attend the Duchess’s Tea Party. Also, Alice is unable to go to Wonderland without White Rabbit to direct her. Furthermore, the publishers cannot bring out a new edition unless White Rabbit gets back. But he isn’t anxious to make his exit. “I find this land more wonderful and the people extremely charming,” he says, eyeing a bed of carrots and the green lawn beyond.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Sakuntala Gananathan
• Release date: Jan 13, 2015
• ISBN: 9781310349591

Sakuntala Gananathan

Sakuntala Gananathan’s interests include writing short stories and reading. Her story titled “Mend a Bend” was placed 3rd under Category C at the Monash Word Fest Short Story Competition held in 2013. Her historical novel “White Flowers of Yesterday” was awarded Editor’s Choice by her publishers, iUniverse. An excerpt of their appraisal: “The author has done a fantastic job of weaving setting, characterization, historical information, dialogue, and plot together to create a complete, unique and compelling story.” An excerpt from Kirkus Review of the novel: “...a surfeit of grace and wit.” A retired chartered accountant, Sakuntala lives with her husband, their daughters and grandchildren in Melbourne.

Book preview

Jar 39

Copyright 2015 Sakuntala Gananathan

Published by Sakuntala Gananathan at Smashwords

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Part 1

It was the bandit chief who tricked Mustafa into joining the band of thieves, said Vaani. She was reading the story of ‘Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves.’ The chief imprisoned his parents and promised to release them only if the boy would serve him for two whole years. It’s sad only one year has passed when this story takes place. I wish we could help him escape.

But how is it possible? Venyaa asked. Doesn’t he live in a far off place?

True, but why can’t we…

Venyaa broke in, Let’s not think of doing the impossible. We just cannot go back in time. Now don’t disturb me as I need to return this book by Wednesday evening. Else, Jenny will eat my head off. Jenny was her best friend in school, generous and kind, but was particular her story books be returned within the time stipulated, and in good condition.

Vaani was lucky her birthday fell during the summer vacation so that most of her cousins were able to come over to her home. While the ladies were busy with last minute arrangements for the party