Kim: With original illustrations – annotated

“”Kim”” is a novel by Rudyard Kipling, first published in 1901. It is widely regarded as one of Kipling’s masterpieces and a significant work in the canon of English literature. The novel is set against the backdrop of British India and follows the adventures of a young boy named Kimball O’Hara, commonly known as Kim. Plot Summary Kimball O’Hara (Kim) is the orphaned son of an Irish soldier in the British Army and an Irish mother. He grows up as a street urchin in Lahore, blending in with the diverse cultures of India and learning to navigate the complexities of life in the city. Main Characters Kimball O’Hara (Kim) : The protagonist, a clever and resourceful boy who becomes a spy for the British Secret Service. Teshoo Lama : A Tibetan Lama on a spiritual quest to find the River of the Arrow, who becomes Kim’s mentor and guide. Mahbub Ali : A Pathan horse trader and British spy who recruits Kim into the espionage network. Colonel Creighton : An Englishman in the British Secret Service who recognizes Kim’s potential and arranges for his education. Hurree Chunder Mookerjee : A Bengali spy who works for the British and assists Kim in his training and missions. Detailed Plot Kim meets Teshoo Lama, a Tibetan monk, who is on a pilgrimage to find the River of the Arrow, which he believes will free him from the Wheel of Things (the cycle of life and death). Kim becomes the Lama’s chela (disciple) and accompanies him on his journey across northern India. Along the way, they encounter Mahbub Ali, who sees potential in Kim and uses him to carry a secret message to the British. Kim’s life takes a dramatic turn when it is discovered that he is the son of a British soldier. Colonel Creighton arranges for Kim to be sent to St. Xavier’s School in Lucknow to receive a formal education, preparing him for a career in espionage. Despite his formal education, Kim’s heart remains with the Lama, and he continues to assist him whenever possible. After completing his education, Kim is recruited into the British Secret Service. He embarks on various missions, using his ability to blend into different cultural contexts and his deep understanding of Indian society. Throughout his adventures, Kim remains loyal to the Lama, and their relationship deepens. —- ISBN: 9798327814950