Book excerpt: In this collection of dramatic stories the author weaves realistic and gripping tales of characters who, faced with extraordinary situations of choices, overcome their fear and discover reservoirs of courage and inner strength. These short stories are imbued with a rare understanding of children and their emotional needs. The author Sigrun Srivastav is by profession a sculptress. She has also been writing for children and has published over 25 books and received many awards for her works.