Summary of Just So Stories

Whimsical tales of how things came to be, full of wonder and imagination.

How Do You Learn Best?

Note: You can explore any or all of these paths in any order you prefer!

Audio Library

As one of our featured lessons, this topic includes premium audio guides.

🔒

Unlock the Audio Summary

This free audio lesson is available exclusively for Logged in Memory Wizards members. Please sign up for a free account or log in to access this content.

Sign Up Log In
🔒

Unlock the Wizard's Cram Session

This powerful audio study guide is a Pro-exclusive feature. Upgrade to Memory Wizards Pro to access this and all of our premium learning tools.

Upgrade to Pro

Just So Stories in 10 Minutes

Introduction

Introduction

Just So Stories by Rudyard Kipling is a collection of whimsical tales that explain how various animals came to be the way they are today. These stories, originally written for Kipling's own children, have captured the hearts of readers young and old for over a century. In this micro-course, we will delve into the secrets behind these beloved tales and uncover the magic that has made them endure through the years.

From the story of how the elephant got its trunk to the tale of how the leopard got its spots, Just So Stories takes readers on a journey through the imagination of one of the most celebrated authors of children's literature. Kipling's use of playful language and clever storytelling techniques make these stories both entertaining and educational. Through each fable, readers learn not only about the origins of different animals, but also about the importance of curiosity and creativity.

As we explore the world of Just So Stories, we will discover the deeper meanings behind these seemingly simple tales. Kipling's stories are not just entertaining bedtime stories, but also profound reflections on the nature of the world and the creatures that inhabit it. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of Just So Stories and uncover the timeless wisdom hidden within each enchanting tale.

The Elephants Child

The Elephants Child

The inquisitive and adventurous protagonist of the stories, always asking questions and seeking knowledge about the world around him.

The Parsee Man

The Parsee Man

The Kolokolo Bird

The Kolokolo Bird

The Bi-Coloured Python Rock Snake

The Bi-Coloured Python Rock Snake

The Cat that Walked by Himself

The Cat that Walked by Himself

The Beginning of the Stories

The Beginning of the Stories

In Just So Stories, Rudyard Kipling tells the tales of how certain animals came to be the way they are today. The stories are created in a whimsical and humorous way, making them enjoyable for readers of all ages.

How the Elephant Got Its Trunk

How the Elephant Got Its Trunk

How the Camel Got Its Hump

How the Camel Got Its Hump

The Just So Stories

The Just So Stories

Each story in Just So Stories explains how a different animal ended up with its unique characteristics. From the leopard's spots to the rhinoceros's wrinkled skin, Kipling weaves entertaining tales of how these traits came to be.

How the Rhinoceros Got its Skin

How the Rhinoceros Got its Skin

The Origin of the Leopards Spots

The Origin of the Leopards Spots

How the Whale Got Its Throat

How the Whale Got Its Throat

Why the Kangaroo Jumps

Why the Kangaroo Jumps

The Creation of the Armadillo

The Creation of the Armadillo

The Just So Stories Legacy

The Just So Stories Legacy

Just So Stories has become a classic collection of children's tales, loved by readers around the world. Kipling's imaginative storytelling and clever explanations for animal traits continue to captivate audiences of all ages.

In conclusion, Rudyard Kipling's Just So Stories are a collection of whimsical tales that explain how animals came to be the way they are today. Through his imaginative storytelling, Kipling captivates readers with his creative explanations and playful language, making these stories a timeless classic for all ages to enjoy.As readers uncover the secrets behind each story, they are transported to a world where anything is possible and where the origins of the world's creatures are brought to life in a delightful and entertaining way. Just So Stories is a beloved collection that continues to enchant and inspire readers around the world.

1 / 19

Lesson Details & Resources

In a Nutshell

  • What: 'Just So Stories' by Rudyard Kipling
  • When: Written in the late 19th century
  • Who: Main characters include How the Camel Got His Hump, How the Rhinoceros Got His Skin, and How the Leopard Got His Spots
  • Theme: Exploring the origins of various animals and their unique traits

List of Characters in Just So Stories

  • The Elephant's Child

    The Elephant's Child is a curious and adventurous young elephant who goes on a quest to learn the secrets of the crocodile.

  • The Sing-Song of Old Man Kangaroo

    Old Man Kangaroo is a playful and mischievous kangaroo who loves to sing and dance.

  • The Cat That Walked by Himself

    The Cat That Walked by Himself is a clever and independent cat who refuses to be tamed by humans.

  • The Butterfly That Stamped

    The Butterfly That Stamped is a beautiful butterfly with a powerful stamp that can make things happen.

  • The Beginning of the Armadillos

    The Beginning of the Armadillos tells the story of how the armadillos got their armor.

Timeline of Just So Stories

How the Whale Got His Throat

How the Camel Got His Hump

How the Rhinoceros Got His Skin

How the Leopard Got His Spots

The Elephant's Child

The Sing-Song of Old Man Kangaroo

The Beginning of the Armadillos

How the First Letter Was Written

How the Alphabet Was Made

The Crab That Played with the Sea

The Cat That Walked by Himself

The Butterfly That Stamped

Vocabulary List

Elephant's Child
The Elephant's Child is the main character in one of the Just So Stories by Rudyard Kipling.
How the Camel Got His Hump
This is the title of one of the Just So Stories that explains how the camel got its hump.
The Sing-Song of Old Man Kangaroo
This is the title of another Just So Story by Kipling, featuring the character Old Man Kangaroo.
The Cat that Walked by Himself
This Just So Story tells the tale of the Cat that walked by himself and how he became domesticated.
The Beginning of the Armadillos
In this Just So Story, Kipling explains how the armadillos came to be.
How the Rhinoceros Got His Skin
This Just So Story explains how the rhinoceros got his thick skin.
The Butterfly that Stamped
Another Just So Story by Kipling, featuring a butterfly that stamped its foot.
The Crab that Played with the Sea
This Just So Story tells the tale of the crab that played with the sea and how tides came to be.
How the Whale Got His Throat
Kipling's Just So Story explaining how the whale got his throat.
The Leopard's Spots
In this Just So Story, Kipling explains how the leopard got his spots.

Key Facts

This is the information used in the fact matching game

  • - Just So Stories is a collection of children's stories written by Rudyard Kipling.
  • - The book was first published in 1902.
  • - It consists of twelve stories, each explaining how certain animals acquired their unique characteristics.

  • - The stories are written in a whimsical, imaginative style.
  • - Some of the well-known stories include "How the Elephant Got His Trunk" and "How the Leopard Got His Spots."
  • - Kipling wrote these stories for his own daughter, Josephine.

  • - The stories are set in various locations, including the African savannah and Indian jungles.
  • - Kipling's storytelling is influenced by his experiences in India and his love for animals.
  • - The book combines elements of fantasy, folklore, and moral lessons.

  • - Kipling often uses anthropomorphism, giving human-like qualities to animals.
  • - Each story has its own unique origin myth, explaining why certain animals look or behave the way they do.
  • - The stories often involve humorous situations and clever wordplay.

  • - Kipling's use of repetitive phrases and rhythmic language makes the stories enjoyable to read aloud.
  • - The book has been adapted into various forms, including stage plays and animated films.
  • - Just So Stories has remained popular for over a century.

  • - The stories teach valuable lessons about adaptation, curiosity, and the consequences of one's actions.
  • - Kipling's illustrations accompany the stories, depicting the animals and their surroundings.
  • - The book has been translated into numerous languages.

  • - Just So Stories is considered one of Kipling's most enduring works.
  • - The stories continue to captivate readers of all ages with their imaginative storytelling and timeless themes.

Analysis & Significance

Impact on Literature

Rudyard Kipling’s ‘Just So Stories’ has had a lasting impact on children’s literature, pioneering the use of anthropomorphism and fables to teach valuable life lessons in an engaging way. Its imaginative storytelling and playful language have influenced generations of writers and continue to inspire modern works of fiction.

Enduring Themes

The timeless themes of curiosity, resourcefulness, and the importance of storytelling found in ‘Just So Stories’ still resonate with modern audiences today. Kipling’s exploration of the origins of animals and natural phenomena taps into universal truths about the human experience, making the stories relatable across generations.

Cultural Significance Today

‘Just So Stories’ remains culturally significant today, with adaptations in various media such as theater, film, and television. The stories have become a beloved part of popular culture and continue to be celebrated for their whimsical charm and enduring lessons. Kipling’s legacy as a master storyteller lives on through his timeless collection of tales.

Just So Stories Games

Was This Lesson Helpful?

Please log in or sign up to rate this lesson. 

Take Your Learning Offline

Want a convenient, print-ready study guide for this lesson? Become a Memory Wizards Pro member to unlock the downloadable " Memory Scrolls" for this topic and our entire library!

  • ✓ Complete Vocabulary Lists
  • ✓ Key Facts & Timelines
  • ✓ Beautifully Formatted for Print & Mobile
Upgrade to Pro

You must be logged in to provide feedback. Please log in or create a free account.

Scroll to Top