The Gurukul Chronicles by Smara (Radhika Meganathan)
Publisher: Vishwakarma Publications, Price: Rs.295
Although tomes of the mythology genre have retold the tales from the Mahabharata, this collection is different because the author has re-imagined the stories of its main protagonists. Divided into three sections, one for each archer, Smara traces their coming of age journeys with empathy detailing their constant practice, resilience and success. The characterisation is detailed and engaging, evidence of the author’s thorough research.
A top prize winner at the International Pune Literary Festival, this book is highly recommended to introduce children to Indian mythology.
The Parrot and the Merchant by Pippa Goodhart (Author)
Marjan Vafaian (Illustrator), Publisher: Puffin, Price: Rs.984
Mah Jahan travels far and wide to trade her goods, and collects countless colourful birds kept in cages. When leaving on a tour of India, she promises to bring back gifts for all her servants, and her favourite talking parrot. The parrot requests that instead of buying her a gift, she should visit a jungle; greet his friends and return with their messages. But when she visits the parrot’s natural habitat, she learns an important life lesson.
Secret Tales from the Himalayas by Bulbul Sharma
Publisher: Good Earth, Price: Rs.335
Moreover, each scene in the book is hand-drawn and brightly painted with dry pastels and water colours. A charming, entertaining and educational read for young children.