Reading Notes: Jataka Tales, Part A

The Turtle Who Couldn't Stop Talking

By Ellen C. Babbitt

• I like the concept of writing in a style that depicts a clear message for children
• Babbitt keeps the language simple and direct
• The geese were very clever to use the stick to carry the turtle to their new home
• I relate to this turtle, I think my inability to keep my mouth shut will be the end of me some day.

The Quarrel of the Quails

• Are quails wise animals? I imagine the wisest of a group of quails would still be rather dull
• I was right, they're dumb birds the Fowler caught them immediately 
• Rather than the elaborate plan the "wise Quail" concocted, why not just change the meeting call?
• I think I'm going to retell this story but with the Fowler as the good guy and make the quails come ups with even more preposterous plans

Some Quails just living their lives