Loading...
Loading...
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!
An exceptional book that blends text and illustrations to introduce pioneering woman photographer Homai Vyarawalla. The story moves briskly from one photo to the next on Homai’s limited roll of film, with illustrations that brilliantly capture the photography process. The biographical note and facsimiles of Homai’s images at the end adds valuable context. This book is a model biography, hopefully setting tone for others to come.
This compelling story of a young boy in rural Tamil Nadu, leading a life differently from the likely readers of this book, spotlights the precarious and deprived, yet free existence of a child from a nomadic community, and the social context in which the family’s tradition occupation is abandoned. Neither school nor the care and comfort of family are in the picture. A thought-provoking read that can generate introspection and discussion.
The book attempts to bridge the divide between urban and rural children’s lived experiences. Suddenly uprooted because of his parents’ distress migration, Giri finds himself in a situation where he is no longer the smart and popular boy in his class as he once was. Instead, he is a silent stranger, whose language no one understands. How he slowly negotiates this new reality, and takes charge of his life, is an inspiring story, told with a light touch.
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.
A pacy, romantic, coming-of-age novel that brings alive the challenges and joys of a girl growing up in contemporary middle-class Muslim family in Bangalore. The protagnist’s quest for agency is skillfully presented, breaking stereotypes in an organic and layered way. Weaving an engaging romace amidst class differences and family/community expectations, this book conveys the complexities of relationships and everyday life with both humour and seriousness.
