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A perfectly baked cinematic adaptation

The first in a series of unique retellings of cinematic masterpieces adapted for children.

Following is an extract from The Best Baker in the World by Raja Sen, the first in a series of unique retellings of cinematic masterpieces adapted for children.

“This is my family, Kay, it’s not me,”
Michael said, as she looked around to see
Big men practising their lines
So that their conversation shines,
And the Don would hand them a cake or three.

“It isn’t important to cook,” Michael demurred
“so, what if, on cheesecake, my family has the last word?
On books I am keen;
I prefer the college scene.
I’d rather be the kind of Don you find at Oxford”.

Finally, the Don danced with his girl.
He swept Connie up and gave her a twirl.
The whole family clapped;
Many a back was slapped.
All was indeed well with the world.
You see, it’s all about the mouth.
To keep your mood from going south,
Flash a smile with ease,
Like you’re saying “cheese”,
And eat something you Love,
when in doubt.

The next day, a shadow fell on the curtain.
Long-necked and twisted, it was certain
Mr Turk owned this shadow.
His stench was so bad, oh!
He made hard candies sold cheap, per ton.

Turk showed Don his candies, trying his luck.
Sugary and round, harder than a hockey puck.
Big jawbreakers and lollipops
That could work as doorstops
Sonny took one lick and went,
“Yee-uck!”

The Don shook his head slowly, side to side.
He said there was nothing at all here to decide.
So much sugar would make ’em sick.
Teeth would rot as kids ate quick.
They could choke if to swallow
they tried.

The Turk wanted the Don to help him sell.
He promised the candies would do so well.
They came in rainbow colours.
(What if they broke some molars?)
He guaranteed a hungry and eager clientele.

When the Don had made up his mind
There was no way to make him rewind.
So then Turk did scowl
And step out to growl,
For evil plans had to be designed.

Turk rounded up bad bakers from all around,
Whose lemon tarts weren’t fresh or very round.
The bullies came aboard,
Little Jack and his horde,
And little Henry who on the hill was found.

Because Michael liked his chocolate dark,
The Don decided, after a walk in the park,
To go buy some supplies
For the littlest of his guys
And make something that hits the mark.

If you want the very best dark chocolate cake,
Take cocoa, cream and a grown-up who can bake
(It’s easy, open sesame!
To help, here’s the recipe.)
Note: Not having fresh oranges is a mistake.

( Source : Deccan Chronicle. )
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