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The Girl Who Loved Words: Mahashweta Devi

TThe book introduces writer Mahesweta Devi in wonderful, spare text and striking artwork that can inspire young readers to find out more about the writer. The writer’s love for words is presented through the trope of a bedtime story told by an older sister to her siblings, with the older sister revealed as Mahasweta at the end. The illustrations draw from the specific context of Bengal, paying homage to the art of Chittoproshad Bhattacharya.

Duckbill - an imprint of Penguin Random House India 2023 Lavanya Karthik Lavanya Karthik

Reva and Prisha

In this story, Reva and Prisha are two children sharing a home with two mothers, Runu and Pritam. A sensitive portrayal such as this one, capturing a glimpse into the lives of queer people by a queer author does not feel tokenistic at any point in the book and in fact underscores that life is a rainbow in its multifarious dimensions. The illustrations add a different dimension to bringing the characters alive, highlighting some unique sides to this family.

Scholastic India 2021 Shals Mahajan Lavanya Karthik

When Adil Speaks, Words Dance

This sensitive and wonderful story on inclusion and friendship, and portrays empathy beautifully. Adil communicates through sign language, or as his friends see it words dancing to the and music within him. The book does not glorify Adil. Instead, it portrays him as a child who cannot hear but is able to communicate differently from other children around him. The illustrations play an enhancing role in this book.

Puffin Books - an imprint of Penguin Random House India 2020 Lavanya Karthik Lavanya Karthik

The boy who played with light-Satyajit Ray

This is a short biography of Satyajit Ray who, as a young boy, loved playing with light and shadow. The book not only lets children’s imagination run riot but also boldly traces dream pursuit. The well-researched book is an easy read interspersed with sketches that add an element of fun to reading. It is a good introduction to Ray and invites readers to explore his life and works further.

Duckbill - an imprint of Penguin Random House India 2021 Lavanya Karthik Lavanya Karthik