6 books by Indian authors to add to your child's summer reading list

'Books are uniquely portable magic,' Stephen King aptly said.
With summers here, it is time to stay indoors and curl up in your favourite corner with a book. This is also a great time for kids to catch up with their favourite stories and learn with fun. To help you choose some great books for your child this summer, Dalbir Kaur Madan, Founder Director- One Up Library, Book Studio & Learning Lab, tells us her book recommendations for children. These are an eclectic mixs of books in various genres that are written by Indian authors and are perfect for kids aged between 12 to 15 years. Here's what she said:

Genre: Realistic Fiction
'Children of the hidden land' by Mandira Shah is an engaging story, with well-developed characters, that explores themes such as family, courage, and identity. The author introduces Imphal valley through the characters of April, Henthobia and April’s unknown ally Shalini Gupta. The characters stumble upon a dangerous world where children are trafficked and trained to be soldiers. A world where drugs, arms and gold are peddled across the borders. This story shows with hope and courage we can overcome prejudices as
we question the idea of nation.

Photo: Speaking Tiger YA

Genre : Fantasy and actual science

Genre : Historical Fiction
'How to Find What You’re Not Looking For' by Veera Hiranandani is an award winning realistic portrayal of adolescence and the complexities of family dynamics. This book is written from the second-person point of view, but told from Ariel’s perspective, which is a rare narration style. The protagonists are forced to grapple with both her family’s prejudice and the antisemitism she experiences, as she defines her own beliefs. It is a book about everyday triumphs and sorrows.

Photo:‎ Kokila

Genre : Narrative Nonfiction

"'Batata, Pao and all things Portuguese' by Vaishali Shroff is an illustrated graphic book on the History of Goa which has an exciting and grand voyage from Portugal to India. This book serves as an eye-opener for kids who are absolutely unaware of Portuguese India between 1498 and 1961. A great book for history and food lovers too!," Madan said.
Author Vaishali Shroff won the AutHer Award 2023 for Best Children's Book for 'Batata, Pao and all things Portuguese'.

Photo: The People Place Project

Genre : Historical Fiction
'The Chowpatty Cooking Club' by Lubaina Bandukwala is set in Bombay in 1942. The author beautifully portrays through the journey of Sakina and her friends Zenobia and Mehul, the lives of children across India during the struggle of independence. A great story for readers across age to understand nationalism, independence, activism and protest in the background of Quit India Movement.


Photo: Penguin

Genre : Realistic Fiction

'Rain Must Fall' by Nandita Basu is a tale of love and loss, of rejection and affirmation, and above all, the healing and illuminating power of friendship. It provides thoughtful insight to the world of nonbinary teenage girl. Her struggle for acceptance and identity. “You need to stop questioning yourself every time the world raises a finger at you. Because it’s a big world with a lot of fingers.” This graphic novel is a simple yet empowering story of an otherworldly friendship is suitable for all young adults.


Photo: Penguin