CBSE Class 10 Board Examination
Board examination for Class 10 students under CBSE, a critical milestone assessing core subjects and determining progression to higher secondary education.
The Book That Saved the Earth — Class 10 English
Chapter 9: The Book That Saved the Earth
Summary
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.
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Class 10 English — The Book That Saved the Earth (Practice Quiz)