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The Panchatantra

Brief Description
HarperCollins is proud to present our range of timeless literary classics. Better the sensible enemy than the foolish friend The greed of a lion outwitted by a fox; the mercy shown to an elephant by a group of mice; the quick wit of the monkey who... Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$1299
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HarperCollins is proud to present our range of timeless literary classics.

An essential, best-loved classic

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

HarperCollins is proud to present our range of timeless literary classics.

Better the sensible enemy than the foolish friend

The greed of a lion outwitted by a fox; the mercy shown to an elephant by a group of mice; the quick wit of the monkey who escapes a crocodile, the tragedy of the Brahmin and the mongoose… At once funny and wise, this celebrated collection of ancient Indian fables has instructed and entertained for centuries.

Sly jackals, gullible fish and clever crows abound in the Panchatantra, one of the world’s most translated and imitated texts. Inspiring storytellers from medieval Europe to Bollywood, these timeless stories supply practical counsel, satirical observation and enduring human truths.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780008742416

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 10 September 2026

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: William Collins

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 32.0mm

Width: 111.0mm

Height: 178.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 480

About the Author

According to the introduction of Panchatantra, Vishnu Sharma was a wise old brahmin tasked with educating three wayward princes in the mysterious kingdom of Maiden's Delight. He compiles his teachings into this collection of fables with a guarantee to teach the princes the 'art of intelligent living'. The biographical detail of Vishnu Sharma's life is lost to history, with only Panchatantra to speak for him, whether historical figure or literary creation himself.

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