NCERT Questions & Answers + Important Extra Questions
NCERT Textbook Questions
What "__( experiment" did Maxwell think of? Why did he think of it?
Answer
Maxwell thought of the "experiment" of keeping an otter as a pet instead of a dog. He thought of it because: (i) He was travelling to southern Iraq (the marshes of Basra), which was otter territory. (ii) He had always wanted a pet and was especially interested in unusual animals. (iii) His friend had suggested getting an otter. (iv) The idea fascinated him — otters were intelligent, playful, and unique companions. He obtained a smooth-coated otter which he named Mijbil (Mij).
Why does he think the otter was "__( like a small__( dragon"?
Answer
When Maxwell first received Mij, the otter was covered in mud and looked like a small dragon — its body was coated in thick armour-like mud, making it appear prehistoric and reptilian rather than the soft, furry creature it actually was. After a bath, the otter's true appearance emerged — velvety chocolate-brown fur, a flat skull, and webbed feet. The "dragon" comparison highlights the dramatic transformation from the muddy creature to the beautiful otter that would become Maxwell's beloved companion.
What things does Mij do which___ show that he is an__( intelligent and fun-loving animal?
Answer
Mij showed intelligence and playfulness in many ways: (i) Discovered water taps: Mij learned to turn on the bathroom tap to play with running water — he would spend hours juggling water between his paws, rolling in it, and splashing. (ii) Invented games: He played with marbles, rolling them on the floor, chasing them, and flicking them with his paws. He especially loved a small rubber ball. (iii) Destroyed a suitcase: During the flight, when confined to a box, he tore the lining apart and escaped, showing determination and problem-solving ability. (iv) Slide game: He invented a game of sliding on his back across polished floors, like a child on a slide. (v) Social behaviour: He followed Maxwell around like a dog, walked on a lead, and showed affection and attachment. (vi) Responded to calls: He came when called by name.
What hazards did__( Maxwell face in__( transporting Mij to England?
Answer
Maxwell faced several challenges: (i) Airline restrictions: British Airways wouldn't allow animals in the passenger cabin. He had to book on a different airline that permitted it, but Mij had to travel in a box for part of the journey. (ii) The box escape: Mij tore open the box lining and escaped during the flight, causing chaos among the passengers. An air hostess was terrified. Maxwell had to crawl under seats to catch him. (iii) Time pressure: He had a tight schedule to catch flights and couldn't afford delays. (iv) Mij's distress: Being confined in a small box caused Mij great distress — he scratched, bit, and pushed against the box. (v) Blood on clothes: Mij's struggles in the box caused his nose to bleed, and Maxwell's clothes were covered in blood when he arrived at the airport, drawing alarmed looks.
Important Extra Questions
Describe the__( bond between Maxwell and Mij.
Answer
Maxwell and Mij shared a deep, loving bond: (i) Mij followed Maxwell everywhere like a devoted companion. (ii) Maxwell arranged his entire life around Mij's needs — finding an airline that allowed animals, building special bathing arrangements, and taking him on daily walks. (iii) Mij showed affection and trust — he would nestle against Maxwell, play with him, and respond to his calls. (iv) When they walked in London, Mij walked on a lead beside Maxwell, and people stopped to ask what kind of animal he was. (v) Maxwell describes Mij's behaviour with great tenderness and detail, showing he observed and loved every aspect of the otter's personality. This was not an owner-pet relationship but a genuine companionship between two beings.
What is the__( theme/message of the story?
Answer
The story conveys: (i) Animals are intelligent, emotional beings — Mij shows creativity, affection, playfulness, and distress. He is far from a mindless creature. (ii) The bond between humans and animals can be as deep and meaningful as human friendships. Maxwell's relationship with Mij enriched both their lives. (iii) Wild animals have complex needs — Mij's need for water, space, and stimulation shows that keeping wild animals as pets requires deep understanding and commitment. (iv) The joy of unusual companionship — Maxwell's decision to keep an otter instead of a conventional pet led to extraordinary experiences. (v) Respect for nature — the story encourages us to appreciate the beauty and intelligence of wild creatures.