This book contains the following story:
"The White Seal" is a short story by Rudyard Kipling, and it's part of his collection "The Jungle Book," specifically found in the sequel, "The Second Jungle Book," published in 1895. The story follows the adventures of Kotick, a rare white seal, as he embarks on a journey to find a safe haven for his fellow seals. Here's a plot summary of "The White Seal":
The story begins in the northern seas of the Bering Sea, where a rare white seal pup named Kotick is born among a colony of seals with gray fur. Kotick's fur is white, making him stand out among the other seals. He is different from his peers in not only appearance but also in his dreams and ambitions. Kotick dreams of a place where seals can live free from the threats of humans and predators.
One day, Kotick witnesses the brutal massacre of seals by seal hunters, and he is horrified by the violence and death he witnesses. This traumatic event solidifies his determination to find a safe and secluded home for the seals, far away from human interference.
Kotick embarks on a journey, traveling great distances and enduring various trials and dangers. Along the way, he encounters different sea creatures, including sea cows and sea horses, who provide valuable advice and guidance. He learns about a remote, isolated island called Novastoshnah, which he believes could be the perfect sanctuary for his fellow seals.
Kotick arrives at Novastoshnah and discovers that it is indeed an ideal haven for seals. It is protected from human intrusion and predatory threats. Kotick returns to his original seal colony and persuades them to follow him to Novastoshnah. At first, the older seals are skeptical, but Kotick's unwavering determination and the promise of safety eventually convince them to join him.
Kotick leads the colony to their new home on Novastoshnah, where they can live in peace and safety. The story ends with Kotick's dream fulfilled, as he becomes known as "Kotick, the White Seal" and is revered by his fellow seals for his courage and leadership.
"The White Seal" explores themes of courage, determination, and the search for a safe haven. It also highlights the impact of human activities on wildlife and the importance of finding a place where animals can live without fear of harm.
