NCERT Class 10 English – Footprints Without Feet – Chapter 9: The Book That Saved the Earth
Exercise Questions: Short Answers & Simple Explanations
Q1. Why was the twentieth century called the Era of the Book?
Answer: It was called the Era of the Book because books were the main source of knowledge, information, and entertainment.
Explanation: In the 20th century, books dominated human learning and communication before the rise of digital media.
Q2. Who tried to invade the Earth in the twenty-first century?
Answer: The Martians, led by Think-Tank, tried to invade Earth in the twenty-first century.
Explanation: The play is a humorous science fiction story about Martians misinterpreting human culture through books.
Q3. What guesses are made by Think-Tank about the books found on Earth?
Answer: Think-Tank first guesses that books are sandwiches, then communication devices, and finally secret weapons.
Explanation: His wrong interpretations create comic confusion and reveal how ignorance can lead to fear.
Q4. Noodle avoids offending Think-Tank but at the same time corrects his mistakes. How does he manage to do that?
Answer: Noodle corrects Think-Tank politely by using phrases like “May I suggest…” and by praising him before offering corrections.
Explanation: His clever diplomacy allows him to guide Think-Tank without hurting his ego, showing tact and intelligence.
Q5. If you were in Noodle's place, how would you handle Think-Tank's mistakes?
Answer: I would respectfully point out the truth while maintaining his dignity, just as Noodle does.
Explanation: The best way to correct a superior’s mistakes is with calm reasoning and respect, not open criticism.
Q6. Do you think books are being replaced by electronic media? Can we do away with books altogether?
Answer: Electronic media is growing, but books can never be fully replaced because they offer depth, focus, and permanence.
Explanation: Technology changes formats, but the habit of reading and the value of written knowledge remain timeless.
Q7. Why are books referred to as a man's best companion? Which is your favorite book and why?
Answer: Books are loyal companions that teach, entertain, and never judge. My favorite book is (your answer) because it inspires and motivates me.
Explanation: Books give silent wisdom and emotional comfort, unlike temporary worldly relationships.
Q8. In what ways does Think-Tank misinterpret innocent nursery rhymes as threats to the Martians? Can you think of any incidents where you misinterpreted something?
Answer: Think-Tank takes simple rhymes like “Humpty Dumpty” as war codes and “Mother Goose” as Earth’s leader. Once, I too misunderstood a joke as an insult until it was clarified.
Explanation: The play humorously shows how lack of understanding can turn harmless things into imagined threats.
Q9. The aliens in this play speak English. Do you think this is their language? What could be the language of the aliens?
Answer: No, English isn’t their real language. It’s used only so the audience can understand the play; the Martians would have their own alien language.
Explanation: The use of English makes the story readable and funny, but logically, aliens would communicate in a different, unknown system.