9 Diwali books to read with your kids

Storytelling and books form a huge part in the festivities at our home. Naturally, I am always on the lookout for good children’s books on the topic. Here, I have compiled a list of my favourite books on Diwali to read with your kids. I prefer books that focus more on culture than religious instruction, books that have beautiful illustrations, aren’t stereotypical in any way and are age-appropriate. This list is based on these criteria.

1. Diwali lights by Rina Singh

This is a beautiful baby book on the festival, It only talks about the lights, colours and celebrations. Accompanied by photos, and rhyming text, makes this book a great first book. The book is divided into two parts, with the latter part talking a little more in detail about the whys of Diwali.

What stood out for me: Real images of babies and toddlers celebrating Diwali

Recommended for : 0-2 years

2.

Click to read the rest

In my heart- a children’s book on adoption

One of the many reasons my then friend, now husband, and I connected was on our views on adoption- both of us wanted heart babies some day. But we have had to put that dream on hold for now, due to various reasons. A couple of years back, when I was researching children’s books on this topic, I almost drew a blank, save for a handful of decent ones. Which is why this book makes me personally very happy.

In my Heart by Nandana Dev Sen and published by Penguin India tells the story of little Mia, who is a heart baby. She is a happy girl, and loves her family. She knows she came out of her parents’ heart. She also knows she is similar to her parents. They love a lot of similar things- dinosaurs, books and beaches to name some. One day, she meets her friend’s mom who has a baby in her tummy, and is intrigued.… Click to read the rest

The Jungle Radio- Book review

All books are beautiful. But some are just downright gorgeous. This is one such.

In The Jungle Radio- Bird Songs of India, aptly published by Penguin Random House, little Gul goes on a walk and encounters a myriad of birds and their sounds. A very simple story at the outset, but so much more.

What we loved

 The story is very simple and straightforward- no suspense and a feel good book.

 I’ve become so much more knowledgeable after V, thanks to her books. I did not know the names of more than half the birds mentioned in the book, until I read it!

 The whole book is written in beautiful rhyme and the bird calls are woven beautifully into the text making reading this book aloud such an enriching and fun experience 

 The sparkly illustrations stay with you for a long time after you’ve read it.

 The index at the end of the book, that names all the birds mentioned, resources used to research makes one applaud the author’s effort.… Click to read the rest