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This poignant narrative navigates the complexities of young adult life, while philosophically exploring death. Conversations feel authentic, and using ‘Death’ as a character and companion is an interesting device to reflect on the past and present. Pen and ink drawings suit the graphic format effectively. Importantly ending with hope and resolution, the story is insightful and wise, without being preachy. It would resonate with many young readers today.
Good poems for children are hard to come by, especially modern ones. This is a delightful collection of poems on all sorts of weird and wacky themes like dinosaur eggs and pangolins that play music. The incidents are bizarre yet identifiable. The language is witty and beautiful, with unusual words and carefully crafted rhythm. These are poems to read aloud, or silently to yourself, and enjoy the play of language and a parade of quirky creatures.
This lovely book, set in rural Kerala, features a captivating cast embodying essential questions- How to live with difference, how to remain curious, and hold on to dreams. These themes are delicately examined, allowing readers to think independently. The writing, simple yet richly layered, evokes a sense of place and rootedness. The illustrations are few but packed with detail and character.
Maithili and the Minotaur: Forest of Forgotten Fears
In this wildly, fantastical adventure, Maithili and her irreverent friends – a minotaur, a wolfhound, a snake and a three-eyed cat – embark on a thrilling and dangerous journey through a living, breathing forest. An adventure ensues, as the familiar school library and forest are imbued with an edginess. The superb artwork brings each character alive, making this comic-format book a worthy successor to the first title in the series.
How to Reach Mars and other Impossible Things
The Indian Mars Mission has surely been of great interest to many children. Here is a narrative non-fiction that gives an inside look into the mission and the scientists involved. On a field trip to the Satellite Centre in Bengaluru, curious and fearless Rabia seeks out the scientists and discovers the remarkable women behind the mission. Wonderful illustrations with a touch of humour bring the story alive.
Lady Tarzan: Jamuna Takes a Stand
This was the name given to Jamuna Tudu, a young Adivasi who grew up thinking of trees as her siblings. Her lone battle against rampant deforestation inspired a movement, led largely by women. Her courage in confronting powerful forces shows how anyone can make a difference. Beautifully illustrated, this book brings the forest to life.
The Harmony of Bees and Other Charms of Creepy Crawlies
Creepy-crawlies are an eternal source of fascination as well as revulsion. In this highly readable book by a seasoned naturalist, everday insects are portrayed with a fresh perspective, revealing bizzare aspects of thier lives. Male spiders woo mates with gifts to avoid being eaten by her. Butterflies don’t just drink nectar, but also blood and alchohol. Read on!
Based on a true event in rural Tamil Nadu, this story follows a boy’s efforts to rally villagers to rescue nestlings of a vulnerable bird species. It captures community involvement in prioritizing a bird’s protection over immediate needs. Diverse characters offer insight into rural life and draw attention to a co-existence with nature and each other. The artwork, using a limited palette, plays with darkness and perspective in interesting ways.
