Reading is an integral part of a child’s ecosystem and introducing them to the magical world of books and stories is truly a joy. Indian publishers and authors have been publishing some of the best children’s books with stunning illustrations and captivating stories. When my son asks me to read to him, it makes me happy. Children’s books can also be a great way to introduce kids to topics like climate change and gender identity. Here’s a list of 10 English language books — both informative and plain fun — for different ages that can be added to your child’s library…
‘Flutterfly’ by Niveditha Subramaniam
Vivid illustrations weave a story that needs no words. Suitable for the littlest readers who would be enamoured by the bright colours, this book will surely draw them in and engage them into turning pages.
Age: 1 year onwards
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‘Gajapati Kulapati’ (series) by Ashok Rajagopalan
Published by Tulika Books, this book has delightful pictures and simple text that can make both adults and little ones go ‘awww’. Gajapati is a friendly elephant, and each book in the series focuses on a problem he solves with his village friends. A great and vibrant starting point for the little ones. This book is also available in Hindi and other regional languages.
Age: 2 years onwards
Buy it here
‘What Shall I Make?’ by Nandini Nayar, illustrations by Proiti Roy
Also by Tulika Books, this gem from prolific children’s author Nandini Nayar, will take you back to childhood when you read it to your toddler. Neeraj’s mother gives him chapati dough to play with while she cooks, and his imagination morphs it into a snake, a mouse, a cat and a lion. Concise text, a good rhyme, pleasing illustrations, and a chapati recipe in the end — this one has it all. This book is also available in Hindi and other regional languages.
Age: 3 years onwards
Buy it here
‘Your Body Is Yours’ by Yamini Vijayan, illustrations by Aindri C
Delicately layering the ideas of body positivity and body autonomy, Vijayan’s book, published by Pratham Books, helps parents start the conversation about consent. It teaches kids that their body is unique and belongs only to them! The book is a guide to self development and self confidence for children, while helping parents start a complex shift: empowering children to own their own bodies. This book is also available in Hindi and Kannada.
Age: 4 years onwards
Buy it here
‘Ammu’s Bottle Boat’ by Niveditha Subhramaniam, illustration by Aindri C
The story follows the journey of a plastic bottle that had been carelessly discarded in the ocean. Ammu’s Bottle Boat, published by Tulika Books, is a charmingly crafted picture book that has a subtle call to action. The narrative combines facts with rhyme and rhythm to show children the consequences our actions have on the environment. It teaches children and parents alike, about small actionable steps. This book is also available in Hindi.
Age: 5 years onwards
Buy it here
‘The Tree Boy’ by Srividhya Venkat, illustrated by Nayantara Surendernath
A book that touches upon feelings of empathy and being in someone’s else’s shoes, The Tree Boy follows the story of Sid who is mocked on the football field.
In this book published by Pickle Yolk Books, Srividhya and Nayantara create an extraordinary world with their masterful illustrations that elevate the fantasy, reinforcing the message — think twice before you wish for something.
Age: 6 years onwards
Buy it here
‘The Dreamers’ series by Lavanya Karthik
Lavanya Karthik’s series introduces readers to childhood experiences of India’s most iconic personalities — Satyajit Ray, R.K. Laxman, R.K. Narayan, Teejan Bai, Bachendri Pal to name a few. Lyrical, allegorical and thrilling, all biographies are beautifully written and illustrated. The Dreamers books are great because the elongated picture books help children slowly segue into chapter book reading.
Age: 7 years onwards
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‘Fun in Devlok Omnibus’ by Devdutt Pattanaik
I love the way in which Pattanaik spatters children’s everyday life with Indian Mythology. This book, published by Penguin India, has an easy, short introduction to gods and goddesses who are written about in an approachable and fun manner. In this compilation of six stories, Kama vs Yama and Indra finds Happiness made me smile too along with my eight-year-old nephew. An enjoyable, independent read for children above 8, you’d be pleased to see their eyes twinkling at God’s antics.
Age: 8 onwards
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‘Manya Learns to Roar’ by Shruthi Rao, illustrations by Priya Kuriyan
Easy to read and accessible for kids, this story is delightful and written in simple, engaging language. The author has also grappled with issues related to stammering and the book targets the stereotypes associated with it. The beautiful illustrations by Priya Kuriyan make the reading experience more enticing.
Age: 9 years onwards
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‘A Cloud called Bhura: Climate Champions to the Rescue’ by Bijal Vachharajani
A story about four friends, a city in need of help, a bunch of clueless grown ups, and a very angry, very brown, very dangerous cloud. Vachharajani’s unique sense of humour and propellent narrative make this book important. Published by Speaking Tiger, A Cloud Called Bhura is equal parts informative about climate change, and equal parts entertaining.
Age:10 years onwards
Buy it here
The above list of books by Indian authors is just the tip of the iceberg, and there are many more books out there waiting to be discovered. Whether you are looking for learning opportunities, humour or adventure, there is a book by an Indian author out there for your child.
The author is an economist and full-time millennial mother, struggling to cope with daily chores
