Despite the countless books, methods, and well-meaning advice from family members, potty training remains one of parenting’s most universal yet uniquely challenging milestones. In A NAUGHTY POTTY DEMON TALE, author-illustrator Deven Jatkar delivers a delightfully clever tale that transforms this everyday parenting challenge into an epic mythological battle.
Drawing inspiration from the ancient Hindu tale of Indra and the demon serpent Ahi, A NAUGHTY POTTY DEMON TALE features a contemporary narrative that will resonate with both children and their sometimes-exasperated parents. The story follows a young boy whose ordinary bathroom visit takes an unexpected turn when the toilet mysteriously refuses to flush. After “the faucet squeaked, sputtered a few drops, and stopped working,” our hero pieces together the evidence. The vanishing water, the failing plumbing—it all points to one culprit: Ahi, the mythical water-hoarding demon, lurking in his toilet.
From there, the narrative parallels the original myth while remaining firmly grounded in contemporary reality. Integrating Indian mythology, including references to Indra’s vajra weapon (cleverly reimagined as a plunger), adds a level of cultural depth that sets this book apart from typical potty-training literature. Parents will appreciate how the story provides an opportunity to discuss Indian mythology and practical bathroom etiquette.
Jatkar’s vivid illustrations strike a perfect balance between whimsical and suspenseful, with the toilet-dwelling demon rendered in a way that’s appropriately more amusing than frightening. The stylized, hand-drawn lettering adds a personal touch as well. Meanwhile, the artwork as a whole effectively captures the story’s escalating chaos, from initial water sputters to the final flood. The use of color throughout the book is particularly effective, with the demon’s dramatic appearance marked by rich, jewel-toned hues that contrast nicely with the everyday bathroom setting.
The book’s pacing is also noteworthy, building tension through each failed attempt to defeat Ahi while maintaining a light, humorous tone that’s sure to keep young readers engaged without becoming overwhelmed. While parents should probably include a gentle warning about not actually throwing toilet paper rolls into the toilet (let alone multiple rolls), the book’s imaginative approach to bathroom challenges makes it a valuable addition to any potty-training library.
With a perfect blend of creativity and cultural storytelling, Deven Jatkar’s A NAUGHTY POTTY DEMON TALE elevates the humble potty book format into a rich adventure that respects its young audience while celebrating both the frustrations and triumphs of bathroom independence.
~James Weiskittel for IndieReader