Pather Panchali placed Indian cinema on the world map in 1955: this is a simple statement of fact no hyperbole. In the sixty years since the movie has acquired cult status and its sketchbook mythical proportions. Believed to have been forever lost after the film-maker donated it to the Cinematheque Francaise archives the sketchbook is now available as a book along with other fascinating and previously unseen material on the film: parts of the draft scenario reviews recollections posters and illustrations.

For film and Ray enthusiasts this is a treasure trove and for a whole new generation of filmgoers including those who might not even have seen the film yet it will reveal a process unfolding a mind at work. As for connoisseurs of the graphic form Ray's sketches are legend and the novelistic qualities of this particular sketchbook have been the matter of intense discussion.

As much a chronicle of the work of a genius as it is a handbook for aspiring film-makers this collector's edition of The Pather Panchali Sketchbook is a must-have for every film lover's library.