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Chapter 9: The Book That Saved the EarthClass 10 English — summary, notes, extra questions & NCERT solutions
Visual story
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The story in short
Written by Claire Boiko, this humorous science-fiction play is set in the twenty-fifth century and looks back at a Martian invasion of Earth that was prevented in a most unusual way. The play, narrated by the Historian from the Museum of Ancient History, shows a group of Martians led by the proud Think-Tank, who considers himself the most intelligent creature in the universe. The Martians, planning to invade Earth, send Captain Omega and his crew to a library, where they find a book of nursery rhymes. Unable to understand it, they consult Think-Tank, who comically misinterprets the rhymes — taking “Mistress Mary” and other verses as evidence that Earthlings are powerful, fearsome beings preparing to attack Mars. Terrified by his own misreadings, the boastful Think-Tank orders an immediate retreat, and the invasion is abandoned. Thus a humble book of nursery rhymes saves the Earth. The play gently satirises arrogance and ignorance while celebrating the power and value of books.
The story in 6 beats
- 1The Historian tells how Martians once plan to invade Earth in the twenty-fifth century.
- 2Think-Tank sends Captain Omega, Lieutenant Iota, and Sergeant Oop to explore a library on Earth.
- 3The Martians find books but cannot understand them and ask Think-Tank what the strange objects are.
- 4Think-Tank first guesses the books are sandwiches, then hats, and finally says they are communication devices.
- 5Reading nursery rhymes badly, Think-Tank imagines Earthlings are powerful and dangerous and fears an attack on Mars.
- 6He orders a quick retreat, and the Historian says a book of nursery rhymes saves the Earth.
Characters & key ideas
Word meanings · शब्दार्थ
Extra questions & answers (board-style)
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Practice quiz · The Book That Saved the Earth
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