📘 Class 10 English Chapter 8 – Mijbil the Otter Notes
Book: First Flight
Author: Gavin Maxwell
Chapter: 8
Board: CBSE Class 10 (2025)
✍️ Introduction
“Mijbil the Otter” is a beautiful story written by Gavin Maxwell, based on his real-life experience of raising an otter. The chapter describes his bond with the otter named Mijbil, its playful nature, and the challenges he faced while bringing it from Iraq to London. The story is heart-warming and shows the emotional connection between humans and animals.
📖 Summary of the Chapter
The author wanted to own an otter after losing his pet dog. While in Iraq, he got an opportunity to fulfill this wish. A friend brought him an otter from the Tigris marshes, and he named it Mijbil. At first, Mijbil was shy and scared, but soon he adapted to the surroundings and started playing joyfully with water, marbles, and various household objects.
The author describes Mijbil as highly intelligent and curious. The otter enjoyed swimming and created mischief wherever he went. When the time came to return to London, the author faced many travel-related problems. As otters were not allowed in flight cabins, he had to transport Mijbil in a box in the aircraft’s baggage area.
During one of the flights, Mijbil accidentally escaped and caused panic in the plane. However, with the help of the air hostess, the author managed to control the situation. Eventually, Mijbil safely arrived in London, where he became the center of attraction and brought great joy to the author’s life.
🧠 Theme and Message
- Human-Animal Bond: The story beautifully showcases the loving relationship between the author and his pet otter.
- Kindness and Responsibility: Caring for animals requires patience, love, and responsibility.
- Adventure and Travel: The story presents the excitement and challenges of international travel with a wild pet.
🦦 Character Sketch – Mijbil the Otter
Mijbil is an intelligent, active, and playful otter. He is curious about everything and loves being around water. He becomes affectionate towards the author and adapts to domestic life. Mijbil’s behavior shows that animals can feel, express emotions, and form strong bonds with humans.
📚 Word Meanings
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Otter | A small mammal that lives in or near water |
| Marshes | Wet, swampy land |
| Domesticity | Home life or household routine |
| Obsession | Extreme interest or passion |
| Distraught | Extremely upset or worried |
❓ Important Questions and Answers
- Q1. Why did the author decide to keep an otter as a pet?
Ans: After his dog died, the author felt lonely and wanted to experience owning an otter, which fascinated him. - Q2. How did Mijbil adapt to his new environment?
Ans: Initially shy, Mijbil quickly became playful and curious, exploring water and household items with joy. - Q3. What challenges did the author face while traveling with Mijbil?
Ans: Mijbil was not allowed in the aircraft cabin, so he had to travel in a box, from which he escaped and caused panic. - Q4. What makes this story unique?
Ans: It is a true, emotional, and humorous account of raising a wild animal, highlighting love, care, and travel.
📥 Download PDF Notes
👉 Click here to download PDF of Mijbil the Otter Notes
📌 Tags: Class 10 English Notes, Mijbil the Otter Summary, Gavin Maxwell, First Flight Chapter 8, CBSE 2025, ToppersNoteHub
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