The Diary of a Space Traveller and Other Stories 

The Diary of a Space Traveller and Other Stories 

Author-Satyajit Ray 

Publisher- Puffin 

Language-English  

 Rating-4/5 

 If your middle grader is interested in sci-fi and space thrillers, then introduce them to the desi genius, Professor Trilokeshwar Shonku. Ray showcases his brilliant imagination as the readers get a dekko into the wild side of the unorthodox professor by dint of his diary entries.  

The diary is discovered in the most mysterious circumstances, too. Bang in the center of a crater formed by a falling meteor. Professor has apparently disappeared after a space trip gone wrong. But his adventures are alive in the diary pages. An irate sadhu, a vengeful mummy, a mad scientist, primitive, ferocious creatures, and whatnot. Professor’s not-so-clever servant Prahlad and his pet cat newton shuffle in and out of the stories keeping them connected. 

Ray’s crisp language with fascinating stories stimulates the imagination. The hilarious undertones keep the narrative light for the intended age group. 

Desi sci-fi at its best. Readers who have grown up reading the Bengali version would obviously relish it more. Though I haven’t read the Bengali version, it didn’t keep me from being hooked.  

Ray is at his innovative best. 

Recommended for the new generation science- fiction enthusiasts. The desi twist of the stories and the genius of this homegrown scientist would keep them asking for more.  

The mad capers of professor Shonku would definitely delight you.