The Indian in the Cupboard

Written by Lynne Reid Banks

Grade:

3-6

ISBN-13:

978-0375847530

Publisher:

Yearling (2010)

When young Omri receives an old cupboard and a plastic Indian figurine for his birthday he is both disappointed and wholly unaware of the life changing effects these gifts will have. In his disappointment he locks the figurine in the cupboard, but he soon discovers that the seemingly ordinary cupboard has magical powers. When the Indian figurine comes to life, Omri is thrown into a world of unexpected adventure and personal growth. Initially thinking of the figurine, named Little Bear, as just a toy, Omri is quickly compelled to begin considering his own relationship and responsibility toward Little Bear and the inherent obligations tied to caring for another living being. In addition, Omri’s relationship with his friend Patrick becomes a source of tension, as Patrick delights in making plastic figurines come to life without considering the consequences. This fantasy adventure touches on elements of childhood imagination while also encouraging the reader to consider the importance of responsibility, friendship, humility, and respect.