ROUTERA

Chapter 7 Madam Rides the Bus (VALLIKKANNAN)

Class 10thEnglish First Flight

CBSE Class 10 English (First Flight)- "Madam Rides the Bus" and Poem "The Tale of Custard the Dragon"

Chapter: Madam Rides the Bus

"Madam Rides the Bus" is a delightful story by Vallikkannan about an eight-year-old girl named Valli who is curious about the world beyond her village. Determined to explore, she saves up enough money to take a bus ride to the nearby town. The story captures Valli's innocence, excitement, and determination as she experiences her first journey alone. Throughout the ride, she observes the people and the scenery with wonder, learning valuable lessons about life and the realities of the world. The story emphasizes themes of curiosity, independence, and the transition from childhood innocence to a broader understanding of life.

Poem: The Tale of Custard the Dragon

"The Tale of Custard the Dragon" by Ogden Nash is a humorous and whimsical poem that tells the story of Custard, a cowardly dragon who lives with a little girl named Belinda and her other pets—a cat, a dog, and a mouse. Despite being teased for his lack of bravery, Custard surprises everyone by showing immense courage when a pirate threatens the household. The poem is a playful exploration of appearances versus reality, with a moral that true bravery often lies beneath a seemingly timid exterior. Its rhyme and rhythm make it an engaging and enjoyable read for young audiences.

These selections from the "First Flight" book explore the themes of adventure, courage, and the complexity of human (and animal) nature, wrapped in engaging and relatable narratives.