Welcome to the NCERT Solutions for Class 10 English - Long Reading Text - Novels. This page offers chapter-wise solutions designed to help students grasp key concepts easily. With detailed answers and explanations for each chapter, students can strengthen their understanding and prepare confidently for exams. Ideal for CBSE and other board students, this resource will simplify your study experience.
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Chapter 1 Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
Diary of a Young Girl is an autobiographical account by Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who lived during the Holocaust. This diary, also known as The Diary of Anne Frank, provides a deeply personal glimpse into her life while hiding from the Nazis during World War II. The diary entries are written from Anne’s perspective, showcasing her thoughts, emotions, and observations during this difficult period.
The story begins with Anne receiving a diary on her 13th birthday. She names the diary "Kitty" and begins to pour her heart out to it. Shortly after her birthday, Anne’s family is forced to go into hiding as the Nazi persecution of Jews escalates. The Frank family, along with another family, the Van Daans, and later Mr. Dussel, a dentist, seek refuge in a hidden annex behind Mr. Frank’s office. The annex is small and cramped, leading to frequent conflicts and frustrations among its residents.
Anne describes the daily routines of hiding, the fear of being discovered, and the impact of the war on her family and friends. Her diary entries reflect her emotional growth, as she transitions from a carefree young girl to a mature, introspective teenager. She struggles with her identity, questions her beliefs, and grapples with feelings of isolation and frustration. Through her writing, she expresses her yearning for freedom, her aspirations, and her dreams for a better future.
The diary also sheds light on Anne’s relationship with her family, especially her complicated bond with her mother, whom she often finds difficult to connect with. She shares a close relationship with her father, Otto Frank, whom she respects and admires deeply. Her budding feelings for Peter Van Daan, a teenage boy in hiding with them, also add a layer of complexity to her emotions.
Anne’s entries are filled with her reflections on humanity, hope, and resilience in the face of adversity. She writes about the importance of staying optimistic and finding joy in small moments, despite the grim reality around her. Anne’s diary serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the indomitable spirit of a young girl who dared to hope for a better world.
Sadly, Anne’s story ends on a tragic note. The annex is eventually discovered by the Nazis, and Anne, along with her family and fellow residents, is taken to concentration camps. Anne’s diary, however, was preserved by Miep Gies, a helper who provided food and support to the families in hiding. The diary was later published by her father, Otto Frank, the only survivor of the group, as a tribute to his daughter’s memory.
Diary of a Young Girl is a timeless piece of literature that offers a unique perspective on the horrors of war, the strength of the human spirit, and the importance of tolerance and empathy. Anne’s diary has inspired millions around the world, serving as a powerful reminder of the need for peace, understanding, and compassion.
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Chapter 2 The Story of My Life by Helen Keller
The Story of My Life is the autobiography of Helen Keller, an extraordinary woman who overcame the challenges of being both blind and deaf to achieve remarkable accomplishments. Written when Helen was just 22 years old, the book provides a deeply moving and inspiring account of her journey from darkness and silence to becoming a renowned author, speaker, and advocate for people with disabilities.
The story begins with Helen’s early childhood in Tuscumbia, Alabama. Born in 1880, Helen was a healthy child until the age of 19 months, when an illness (likely scarlet fever or meningitis) left her deaf and blind. Her early years were filled with frustration and isolation, as she struggled to communicate with the world around her. Unable to see, hear, or speak, Helen often expressed her frustration through temper tantrums, leaving her family feeling helpless.
Helen’s life took a transformative turn when Anne Sullivan, a young teacher from the Perkins School for the Blind, came into her life. Anne’s arrival marked the beginning of a new chapter for Helen. With patience, dedication, and a deep understanding of her pupil's needs, Anne began teaching Helen to communicate using the manual alphabet, spelling words into her hand. The breakthrough moment came when Helen understood the concept of "water" as Anne spelled it into her hand while running water over it. This realization unlocked a world of words and meanings for Helen, igniting her thirst for knowledge.
Helen describes her journey of learning and discovery with a sense of wonder and gratitude. Under Anne’s guidance, she learned to read Braille, write, and eventually speak. Helen’s education extended beyond academics; Anne taught her about nature, literature, history, and the beauty of human emotions. Helen’s determination and Anne’s perseverance enabled her to achieve feats that many thought impossible for a person with her disabilities.
The autobiography also explores Helen’s experiences at the Perkins School for the Blind, the Wright-Humason School for the Deaf, and Radcliffe College, where she became the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. Helen’s academic journey was challenging, but her dedication to learning and Anne’s unwavering support helped her succeed. Helen faced numerous obstacles, including skepticism from others, but she overcame them with resilience and a positive attitude.
Helen’s story is not only about her personal achievements but also her empathy and desire to help others. She became an advocate for people with disabilities, using her experiences to raise awareness and inspire change. Helen’s writing reflects her love for nature, literature, and the human spirit. She expresses a deep appreciation for the world around her, despite her limitations.
The Story of My Life is a testament to the power of perseverance, courage, and the impact of a dedicated teacher. Helen Keller’s life story has inspired millions, proving that with determination and support, one can overcome even the most daunting challenges. Her autobiography continues to be a source of inspiration for readers, encouraging them to embrace their own potential and make a positive impact on the world.