MACHHER JHOL
Average Rating: 5.0
Country: India
Ages: 5-8
Author: Richa Jha
Publisher: Pickle Yolk Books
Illustrator: Sumanta Dey

About The Story

Caring can be shown in so many different ways. It is said that, “Little things mean a lot.” Simple acts of kindness and caring, such as, a word of encouragement, a helping hand or a hug can make a huge difference. And sometimes finding ways to make someone else happy can go a long way. Gopu’s father is sick. Gopu wants to do something to cheer him up. But he has a challenge; achieving what he wants to do for his father needs a lot of courage and determination. We would love to hear from you whether you think that he should or should not have undertaken that journey.

Themes

Environment & Conservation
Social & Emotional Learning
STEAM

Sub Themes

Street scenes of Kolkata
Caring

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Appreciate how love and care are expressed through small, meaningful actions.
  • Learn to recognize the capabilities and intelligence of children with disabilities.
  • Understand spatial awareness and problem-solving through Gopu’s journey.
  • Discuss the importance of family, empathy, and bravery.

Lesson Plan

  • Students will explore how acts of love can overcome fear and limitations. They will discuss blindness, empathy, and the strength found in ordinary families.

Activities

  • Mapping with Memory: Have students create a simple floor map using only verbal directions and step-counting.
  • Secret Acts of Kindness: Children plan a small surprise for a classmate or family member, inspired by Gopu.
  • Senses Walk: A blindfolded walk (in a safe space) where children count steps and listen to sounds to build spatial awareness.
  • Draw the Love Web: Children draw characters in the story and connect them with hearts —label how each showed love.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • Have you ever done something special for someone you love?
  • What do you think makes someone brave?
  • Can people 'see' in ways other than with their eyes?

During reading

  • Why do you think Gopu decides to go to the market?
  • How do you think he knows where he’s going?
  • What do you think the grandmother feels when she sees him?

After reading

  • What challenges did Gopu face, and how did he overcome them?
  • Why do you think his father was angry at first, and then happy?
  • How did the grandmother show her love?
  • What does this story teach us about family and love?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being

SDG 3 promotes emotional well-being, seen in Gopu’s efforts to bring comfort to his father.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

SDG 10 speaks to the empowerment of children with disabilities, affirming their capability and agency.

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