Recommendations Archives - Page 10 of 12 - Penguin Random House India

Welcome the Season of Spring with these Enjoyable New Stories!

Posted on April 7, 2019March 20, 2020 by Penguin India

Are you looking for some new summer reads for your little one? Worry not, as we have got you covered! Here is an interesting mix of books to entice your child to spend vacation days with a book in hand. Another epic summer vacation is in tow with our brand new launches!

The Jungle Radio

The Jungle Radio

When curious little Gul hears some strange sounds coming from her radio, she follows the musical clues into . . . an Indian jungle! On her walk, she finds feathered friends who TWEET, TAPP and TALK. There are some who howl and hoot, and others who play the flute. With a KEE here and a KAW there, Gul discovers songs everywhere!

Om the Gnome and the Chanting Comb

When a gnome called Om receives a shiny comb on his birthday, little does he know that he’s going to learn an important lesson. Om the Gnome and the Chanting Comb unpacks the magic behind the beautiful sound of OM through words and illustrations that are both exquisite and inclusive. Read this book out loud to help your young ones feel light and free.

Reignited 2: Emerging Technologies of Tomorrow

Reignited 2

This groundbreaking book will provide young readers with a whole new world of ideas, inspiration and inputs from pioneers in fields that have shaped the world, helping them think out of the box and make a difference in the future. A must-have guidebook for all budding scientists who are looking to change the world through careers in science and technology!

Sunrise, Moonrise

Travel with the sun and the moon in this heartfelt picture book to find out how people from different cultures and faiths pray. Read Sunrise, Moonrise aloud to spark a discussion with your young ones about the meaning of prayer and what it can do for us.

The Puffin Book of Holiday Stories: An Anthology

This great collection of stories of brave adventures, hilarious misadventures, boisterous families, intimate friendships and facing fears is sure to keep you entertained during your break. Featuring tales penned by some of the finest children’s authors, including Ruskin Bond, Sudha Murty, Paro Anand, Subhadra Sen Gupta, Nayanika Mahtani, Himanjali Sankar and more.

Phenomenal Phonics (Fun with English)

Learning what sound goes with what letter can help you rhyme and make listening to and speaking in English a whole lot of fun. This book is jam-packed with fun activities for you to learn and practise listening and speaking using the right letter sounds.

Popular Proverbs (Fun with English)

Popular Proverbs (Fun with English)

A proverb a day keeps you healthy, wealthy and wise, or so they say. Proverbs are full of wisdom, but they can sometimes be a bit odd and funny too! This book is jam-packed with fun activities for you to learn and practise using proverbs.

Incredible Idioms (Fun with English)

Idioms are great! They’re funny and sometimes silly, and make language so much more interesting to read and listen to. Get ready to find out all about idioms on different themes like animals, clothes, food and colour. This book is jam-packed with fun activities for you to learn and practice using idioms.

Perfect Punctuation (Fun with English)

Punctuation is just a big word for a lot of little dots and dashes! If you’ve ever been confused by commas, semicolons, colons, periods and all the rest, get ready to learn how easy they can be. This book is jam-packed full of great activities for you to learn and practise using punctuation. For ages 7+.

Wondrous Words (Fun with English)

Words, words, words. Words that sound the same and mean different things or mean the same thing but sound different; words that are noises and words that have silent letters…there are just so many different kinds of words in English! This book is jam-packed with fun activities for you to learn and practise using new and interesting words.

Fantastic Figures of Speech (Fun with English)

Do you find figures of speech somewhat flummoxing? Don’t worry, alliteration, metaphor, simile, personification and all the rest are just different ways of making language entertaining to read and write. This book is jam-packed with fun activities for you to learn and practise using figures of speech.

Get to Meet Real-Life Heroes in ‘Junior Lives’

Posted on February 26, 2019March 19, 2020 by Penguin India

Meet the heroes who changed the world! Get to know more about their stories in the Junior Lives series by Sonia Mehta. Junior Lives is a series of illustrated books created for young readers to get to know our world heroes better – the engaging biographies, peppered with little-known facts, takes the reader on a journey of understanding the story behind a great leader.

Here is the complete list that will leave you inspired:

Gautam Buddha

Young Siddhartha renounced all worldly things in search of the ultimate truth. This is the powerful story of his self-discovery and his path to enlightenment as he went on to become one of the world’s greatest religious leaders-Gautama Buddha.

Mahatma Gandhi

Once upon a time, a young boy swore never to lie. He felt strongly about injustice and wanted to change anything that was unfair. When he grew up, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi applied the very same principles to lead India to freedom, becoming an icon of non-violence and changing the fate of a people. This is the story of the making of the Mahatma, a simple man who taught the world that anything can be achieved through peace.

Shivaji Maharaj

In the land of the Marathas, there was once a fearless young ruler called Shivaji. He was known for his bravery and effective war strategies. This young man went on to become Chhattrapati Shivaji Maharaj – one of India’s greatest kings, and a thorn in the side of the mighty Mughal Empire. The Maratha Empire that he established changed the course of India’s history, becoming a major military power.

Rani Lakshmibai

The story of Lakshmibai is one of courage and innate female power. Find out how the tomboy Manikarnika grew up to be the famous ruler of Jhansi-a wise queen, a much-loved leader of her people and a brave soldier who fought fiercely for her kingdom and gave her life in battle.

Mother Teresa

Once upon a time, a young girl was taught by her mother that all people were her people. So Agnes Gonxha Bojaxhiu undertook an incredible journey from her home in Albania to Ireland, and finally, India, touching the lives of millions as she went. And somewhere along the way, she transformed into the beloved Mother Teresa, whose warmth and humanity moved the world.

Learn On The Go With These Fantastic February Reads!

Posted on February 6, 2019March 19, 2020 by Penguin India

February is the much awaited month of love. It can also be the perfect time to rediscover your love for books through path-defining stories of strength, courage, bravery and success. Puffin brings to you an interesting line-up of books for young adults with topics ranging from the life of Shivaji, the great emperor to a behind-the-scenes look at the life of radio jockeys and a very adorable bumblebee, Biplob!

Make learning a memorable experience for your kids with these true-to-life, biographical stories!

Go on, take a peek!

Shivaji Maharaj (Junior Lives)

In the land of the Marathas, there was once a fearless young ruler called Shivaji. This young man went on to become Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj-one of India’s greatest kings and a thorn in the side of the mighty Mughal Empire. Fifth in a series of illustrated books created for young readers to get to know our world heroes betters, this engaging biography, peppered with little-known facts, takes the reader through the awe-inspiring journey of Shivaji, built on his determination and valour as well as his exemplary victories.

The Adventures of Biplob the Bumblebee

Biplop is a very busy bumblebee. When he isn’t collecting nectar, he is off on rollicking adventures to save his garden with the help of his friends, farmer Balram and the flowers. From harvesting water to saving baby plants from a dangerous infection, join Biplob as he comes up with innovative ideas that are always eco-friendly. These vibrantly illustrated stories promise to teach kids something new through lessons on science and friendship.

Let’s Talk On-Air

Take a deep dive into the lives of fourteen eminent radio presenters to learn about the people behind the iconic voices that have entertained us via the airwaves-one of the oldest forms of communication. Get to know the challenges, ideals, inspirations, favourite songs and icons of the popular radio jockeys of our time, including the legend Ameen Sayani, and maybe this can be a career which inspires you too!

Make Learning Fun For Your Little One With These Books!

Posted on January 9, 2019March 19, 2020 by Penguin India

With the new year in full swing, Puffin brings forth an exciting new collection of books for your kids that will enrich their minds and entertain as well!

So, go on, make sure that your tiny tot doesn’t miss out on any of these!

In My Heart

A very special story to be read with loved ones, In My Heart takes us on a child’s journey of discovering who she really is and where she comes from. Warmly illustrated and deeply felt, this is a fearless and tender celebration of the magical ways in which different kinds of families are born.

Macbeth: Vocabulary Enhancer

Word power is an integral part of being able to express yourself-whether you’re in college, appearing for competitive exams or attending a job interview. It makes you an effective and confident communicator. This handy guide brings to you an abridged version of the timeless tragedy Macbeth by William Shakespeare to familiarize you with a must-read and equip you with new words.

Pride and Prejudice: Vocabulary Enhancer

Strengthen your understanding of the English language and enhance your vocabulary with this unique companion. This handy guide brings to you an abridged version of the timeless novel Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen to familiarize you with a must-read and equip you with new words.

There’s a Monster Under My Bed!

There’s something under my bed! What if it grabs my leg? What do children fear the most? From dark nights and eerie shadows to terrifying clowns, scary insects and huge monsters under their beds, conquer the biggest childhood terrors with this enchanting picture book.

Mumbai, Here We Come(Discover India City By City)

Get set to discover Mumbai! Daadu Dolma, Mishki and Pushka are off to explore Mumbai. They’ve heard so much about its amazing people, its film industry and its buzz of activity. They’re going to have some great adventures in the city that never sleeps, so be sure to join them. Just get your backpack ready and plunge right in!

Delhi, Here We Come (Discover India City by City)

Get set to discover Delhi! Mishki and Pushka are longing to explore Delhi. They have heard about its incredible history, its amazing food, the stunning monuments and the unique Delhi lifestyle. Daadu Dolma is finally taking them for a visit. Are you going to join them? Then keep your cameras ready and get set for a wonderful trip!

The Parrot and The Merchant

Mah Jahan, a rich merchant woman, collects birds in cages. But when she brings back a gift for one of them, she learns a surprising lesson.This exquisitely illustrated story is an enchanting fable exploring how hard it is to let go of someone you love and give them freedom. Retold for modern-day readers, this classic tale by Rumi is brought to life by the award-winning illustrator Marjan Vafaian.

Twice Upon A Time

There is more than one way to be a girl! Keya is the real princess of a real kingdom, till she quits – and finds the least suitable replacement for the job! Can a brash, bubblegum-chewing girl fill some very fancy shoes? And what will happen when a real princess starts becoming a real person instead?From award-winning author Payal Kapadia comes this wickedly funny and action-packed novel about some real and not-so-real princesses.

Books To Gift Your Little Ones This Holiday Season

Posted on November 29, 2018February 21, 2020 by Penguin India

It’s everyone’s favourite time of the year – the month of festivities and holidays, and along with it, the question of what to gift little children. We personally think books are a great present and so we bring to you a list of books from which you can choose what to gift your little one!
Amma, Take Me to the Dargah of Salim Chishti

Explore the places where we worship with Amma and her boys. Told through interesting stories with captivating illustrations, ‘Amma, Take Me’ series introduces readers to the history of different faiths and their associated monuments. In Amma Take Me to The Dargah of Salim Chishti, travel with Amma and her boys to the fascinating walled city of Fatehpur Sikri.
Of Course, It’s Butterfingers!

Even when Amar Kishen-better known as Butterfingers-isn’t stumbling through misadventures, he sure has disaster tailing him every step of the way. Join the irrepressible Butterfingers in this exciting and enjoyable instalment of side-splitting short stories.
The Adventures of Woka Chimni

Woka’s love for travel, helpful nature and ecological curiosity make her stories charming and memorable. Discover our country India’s splendour through this series of picture storybooks for kids, one exciting adventure at a time.
Magic in Mussoorie

Nakul Sahej and his friend Kuku stumble upon an antique book while on holiday in Mussoorie. The book turns out to be a magical one that transports the two back in time to the Mussoorie of over a century ago. Action-packed and unputdownable, this thrilling adventure is the first in a series of comic books set in the Garhwal Himalayas.
The Girl Who Went to the Stars and Other Extraordinary Lives

An unbelievable journey through outer space, the voice of a nightingale, a climb up the highest mountain, a leader of the nation. These are the incredible stories of fifty phenomenal Indian women, such as Amrita Sher-Gil, Arundhati Roy, Kalpana Chawla, Mary Kom, Indira Gandhi, Tessy Thomas and more!
The Ultimate Memory Handbook for Students

This book will serve as a handbook for you to memorize information, topics and answers from your course of study. Using memory-enhancing practices and techniques along with tips, activities and practice sections, you can train your brain to retain a wide range of topics and subjects. From the periodic table to trigonometry, history dates to countries and their capitals, master it all with these practical techniques, supported by some quirky and fun artwork that serves as a great visual aid.
Wonder Words

Wonder Words is a gorgeous, illuminating and often hilarious lexicon of unique words from all over the globe. It will open up your world, making you aware of emotions, cultures and practices from far and beyond. Join author-illustrator Rituparna Sarkar in finding the joy of new words in different languages that you always hoped would exist in English!
Discover India series

Sonia Mehta is back with her Discover India series, where the adorable Pushka and Mishki join the wise and witty Daadu Dolma as they traverse the length and breadth of India. This month, they explore Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Arunachal, Nagaland, Tripura, Manipur and the Union Territories of India!

Books to Challenge Your Young Ones to Read this Festive Season

Posted on October 24, 2018February 23, 2020 by Penguin India

We are back with our Puffin reading challenge for your young ones! Keeping up with the mood of the many festivities and celebrations that are approaching, we have curated a list of delightful reads which your kids will find enjoyable and also leave them informed about the significance of various festivals and their mythological origins.
With these books, your children will also know about the the stories about mythological figures, increasing their knowledge in the most interesting way.
This selection of books has been carefully handpicked to suit the fun-loving spirit of your children and are sure to leave them hooked. Challenge your kids to read them all!

For Middle Graders:

The Upside Down King by Sudha Murty

The tales in this collection surround the two most popular avatars of Lord Vishnu-Rama and Krishna-and their lineage. Countless stories about two bound, yet most are simply disappearing from the hearts and minds of the present generation.
Bestselling author Sudha Murty will take you children on an arresting tour, all the while telling you of the days when demons and gods walked alongside humans, animals, could talk and gods granted the most glorious boon to common people.
The Girl Who Chose by Devdutt Pattanaik

Over the centuries, hundreds have retold the Ramayana in different languages, adding new twists and turns. But few have noticed that the tale always depends on the five choices made by Sita. What were Sita’s five choices? India’s favourite mythologist brings you this charmingly illustrated retelling of the Ramayana that is sure to empower and entertain a new generation of readers.
The Puffin Book of Hindu Gods and Goddesses

Dive into the coolest book ever written on the Hindu gods and goddesses, and discover all sorts of quirky, fun facts about them. From silly arguments to epic battles, from nasty monsters to divine divas, The Puffin Book of Hindu Gods and Goddesses juggles a range of tales and characters from Hindu mythology with colourful, zany illustrations to boot.
Amma, Take Me to Tirupati by Bhakti Mathur

Follow Amma and the boys to know all about the world-famous temple of Tirupati Balaji. Told through interesting stories with captivating illustrations, this new series introduces readers to the history of different faiths and their associated monuments.
Magnus Chase: 9 from the Nine Worlds by Rick Riordan

This is an all-new collection of short stories from the world of Magnus Chase. With an exclusive fold-out illustration of the world tree!
Through this riveting book your kids will get a chance to travel the Nine Worlds with their favourite characters from the world of Magnus Chase in a brand-new series of adventures.

For Younger Age Groups:

Devlok series by Devdutt Pattanaik

This is a fascinating set of six stories based on Indian mythology for the young readers. Helping the children get familiar with the mythologies and the culture of India, these books offer the children a fun way to learn. These exciting stories are woven around Gods and Goddesses placed in the current context. The stories in this collection are Shiva Plays Dumb Charades, Saraswati’s Secret River, Indra Finds Happiness, Kama Vs. Yama, Gauri and The Talking Cow, and An Identity Card for Krishna.

Which book will be your kids’ choice in this festive season?

Three James Patterson Titles your Little Ones Shouldn't Miss

Posted on October 10, 2018February 23, 2020 by Penguin India

James Patterson has created more enduring fictional characters than any other novelist writing today and has sold over 350 million books worldwide and currently holds the Guinness World Record for the most #1 New York Times bestsellers.
From Hero to Zero is his latest book, in which Rafe visits the incredible city of London with his class. Out of all of his adventures, this trip could prove to be Rafe’s most embarrassing yet, undoing everything good he has going for him back home!
Here are three titles in The Middle School series by him that your little ones must read.
From Hero To Zero

After a mostly-successful stint at Hills Valley Middle School, Rafe is excited to visit the incredible city of London with his class. But it’s no surprise that Rafe’s bad luck follows him across the pond, putting him in one crazy situation after another – all under the watchful eye of his bad-tempered principal.
The Nerdiest, Wimpiest and Dorkiest

Comedian Jamie Grimm can’t help feeling like he’s reached the top – he has his own smash hit TV show and he’s won a national funny-kid competition. But now he’s taking his fame and fortune to international levels by competing in the upcoming world kid comic contest! Will Jamie prove that he’s the funniest kid on earth – or does he stand (or sit!) to lose his crown?
Dog Diaries

Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy! I’ve been waiting for ages to tell my story, and now it’s finally happening! Being Rafe’s dog isn’t always easy, but it is always EXCITING! I’ve got so much to tell you about:

-How I protect the yard from birds, raccoons, squirrels, raccoons, mail carriers…and did I mention RACCOONS?

-Sniffing pooch posteriors for the latest canine news.

-And the terrifying monster hiding in the hall closet: the vacuum cleaner!

For more posts like this, follow Penguin India on Facebook!

Your Puffin Reads this Autumn

Posted on October 8, 2018February 23, 2020 by Penguin India

This autumn, we have a list of books full of adventure for your little ones! You can send them to solve a mystery with Feluda and Topshe or to meet the ghosts from Ruskin Bond’s world. They can hang with the two most popular avatars of Lord Vishnu or read Sonia Mehta’s fun series on how to deal with feelings!
Here is the list of Puffin Reads to choose from:

Feluda Omnibus by Satyajit Ray

Including three unputdownable mysteries by master storyteller Satyajit Ray, this omnibus edition is the perfect introduction to the greatest exploits of Feluda and his sidekick, Topshe. Traversing fascinating landscapes and electrifying escapades, this collection is an absolute classic and a must-have for fans of detective fiction.

The Upside-down King by Sudha Murty

The tales in this collection surround the two most popular avatars of Lord Vishnu-Rama and Krishna-and their lineage. Countless stories about the two abound, yet most are simply disappearing from the hearts and minds of the present generation. Bestselling author Sudha Murty takes you on an arresting tour, all the while telling you of the days when demons and gods walked alongside humans, animals could talk and gods granted the most glorious boons to common people.

Wind on the Haunted Hill by Ruskin Bond

A gritty, hair-raising story about friendship, courage and survival from India’s favourite teller of tales, this stunning edition is an absolute must-have to introduce young readers to the magic of Ruskin Bond’s craft.

Dealing with Feelings Series by Sonia Mehta

Sonia Mehta is a children’s writer who believes that sparking off a child’s imagination opens up a world of adventure. Here is a list of books by her, that your little one will enjoy (and learn from)!

Being Happy Is Fun
It’s not nice to be jealous
It’s okay to be confused
Being Sad isn’t any fun
Being Bored isn’t fun
Being Silly is Silly

For more posts like this one, follow Penguin India on Facebook!

The August Puffin Reading Challenge

Posted on August 14, 2018February 23, 2020 by Penguin India

We are back with our August Puffin reading challenge resonating with the theme of Independence Day! These books are informative and will help your little ones gain the knowledge about the country in an engaging way.
Encouraging interests in many aspects related to India and its working, this list is a great way to get your children to understand the culture, origin, the vast diversity and the great geography of India in the form of fun facts and reads.
4-7 Years

1. Goodnight India
This book is part of the bestselling Good Night Our World series, including hundreds of titles exploring popular locations and exciting, child-friendly themes. Many of India’s most beloved regions are artfully celebrated in these board books that are designed to soothe children before bedtime while instilling an early appreciation for India’s natural and cultural wonders.

2. Goodnight Delhi
Goodnight Delhi highlights Janpath Market, Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Lodi Gardens, Humayun’s Tomb, Deer Park, Red Fort, Jama Masjid, Qutub Minar, National Zoo, Old Fort, Bahá’í Temple, the National Rail Museum, and more. This educational board book explores all of the sites and iconic landmarks this dynamic city has to offer. Welcome to the capital of India!

3. We the Children of India
We, the children of India— Former Chief Justice Leila Seth makes the words of the Preamble to the Constitution understandable to even the youngest reader. What is a democratic republic, why are we secular, what is sovereignty? Believing that it is never too early for young people to learn about the Constitution, she tackles these concepts and explains them in a manner everyone can grasp and enjoy.

4. India A to Z
Why are the Himalayas considered geologically alive? When did the First train huff and puff its way between two stations in India? What was India’s very own desi dino called? How did India’s currency come to be Named the rupee? Which Indian glacier is the highest battleground in the world? Who wrote the world’s first grammar book? If questions like these make you curious about incredible India, here is a bumper info-pedia packed with fascinating facts, terrific trivia and colourful Cartoons on just about everything in India, this book encourages interest in a wide range of subjects.

8-10 Years

5. A Bagful of History
As you travel back in time in this book, you can dine with Mughal princess Jahanara Begum, have a Jugalbandi with Miyan Tansen, compete with the nawabs od Chandni Chowk in a kite-flying duel, be a part of Raja Ram Mohan Roy’s fight for the education of the girl child and witness many more exciting events !
10-13 Years
6. A Brush with Indian Art
Embark on a vivid journey on which youll learn about the origin and evolution of art in the country. Look at the first pictures made by humans; reflect upon the serenity of Buddhist cave paintings at Ajanta; marvel at the splendor of Mughal miniature art; delight in the religious depictions of Tanjore; study the hybrid Company and revivalist Bengal styles; and discover the best of modern and contemporary artists.

7. The Night Diary
It’s 1947, and India, newly independent of British rule, has been separated into two countries: Pakistan and India. The divide has created much tension between Hindus and Muslims, and hundreds of thousands are killed crossing borders. Half-Muslim, half-Hindu twelve-year-old Nisha doesn’t know where she belongs, or what her country is anymore.

7. Essential India Box Set
This box set comprises of:
My India: This book contains excerpts from Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalaam’s speeches during his post-Presidency years. Drawn from his addresses to parliaments, universities, schools and oter institutions in India and abroad, they include his ideas on science, nation building, poverty, compassion and self-confidence.
The Incredible History of India’s Geography: Maps and mountains, lions and tigers, rivers and oceans-all sorts of things you didn’t know about India’s geography you’ll find here. Discover various things you never expected, like the fact that we still greet each other like the Harappans did or that people used to think India was full of one-eyed giants. Full of quirky pictures and crazy trivia, this book takes you on a fantastic journey through the incredible history of India’s geography.
The Puffin History of India, Volume 1: Trace the origin of human beings and the different aspects of their development and growth, right from the Big Bang and the origin of the universe, up to 1500 CE. Well-researched and comprehensive, this book speaks of great civilizations and empires, epics, myths and legends, religions old and new, wars and conquests, clothes, food and lifestyle, trade, travel and adventure, and much more.

9. India At 70
This book traces the country’s whirlwind journey, giving us a look at the last seventy years. Against a political backdrop, it provides glimpses of India’s vast and rich culture, its many languages and remarkable diversity, its eminent personalities and notable achievements in all spheres. Featuring bite-sized information, fun facts, charming illustrations and detailed maps, this special book sums up the logs of India’s Independence in a fitting way.

The Puffin Back to School Reading Challenge

Posted on August 7, 2018February 23, 2020 by Penguin India

The Puffin Back to School Reading Challenge is the much needed break from school work your child needs.
‘Tis the season…for Back to school shopping but what better things to buy your kids, than some fun companions: books!
We know it’s that time of the year when summer vacations are a throwback to the lazy and fun times spent with your kids. However, reading with your kids can be the perfect opportunity to make new memories.
We have an exciting reading challenge that will not only help your young learners discover their interests but also help sensitize them to important topics in their formative years.
From breaking gender stereotypes to solving engaging math puzzles and exploring foreign lands, we have amazing recommendations for kids in Kindergarten to Middle school.
——–
For 4-7 year olds:

Peppa Pig: Peppa Plays Cricket by Peppa Pig
It is a very sunny day. Perfect for a game of cricket! Daddy Pig teaches Peppa, George and Suzy Sheep how to play cricket in the garden, followed by the most important part of the game – taking a break for tea and cake! Everyone loves cricket, especially Daddy Pig!
The perfect book for your little cricketers, teaching them the rules of the game as well as teamwork and sportsmanship.

Eric Carle’s Book of Many Things by Eric Carle
Children will have hours of fun learning first words and first concepts in this beautiful book from the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar. From food and clothes to animals and feelings, this is the perfect way for little ones to learn what they need to navigate their busy worlds.

Pink and Blue by Ritu Vaishnav (Author), Vishnu M Nair (Illustrator)
Pink is for girls. Blue is for boys
Girls play house. Boys play cricket
Cry like a girl. Kick like a boy
Sometimes grown-ups can say silly things that just aren’t true–not for all kids anyway! This book is an attempt by a mum to start a conversation with her little one about gender stereotypes. It encourages kids to question these notions before they begin to shape their thinking and offers adults an opportunity to initiate this very necessary discussion.

Helping Others Is Cool (My Book of Values) by Sonia Mehta
Nicky and Noni both badly want to win the School Champ contest, so they’re much too busy to help anyone around them. But along the way, they realize what it takes to be an all-rounder. What do they learn? Read on to find out.

For 8-10 year olds:

Middle School: Hero To Zero by James Patterson and Chris Tebbetts
After a mostly-successful stint at Hills Valley Middle School, Rafe is excited to visit the incredible city of London with his class. Sightseeing around a foreign country sounds like a blast, until Rafe finds out his roommate will be none other than Miller the Killer, bully extraordinaire! And it’s no surprise that Rafe’s bad luck follows him across the pond, putting him in one crazy situation after another–out of all of his adventures, this trip could prove to be Rafe’s most embarrassing yet, undoing everything good he has going for him back home!

Detective Nosegoode and the Music Box Mystery (Detective Nosegoode 1) by Marian Orlon
At first glance, Mr Ambrosius Nose Goode seems to be a perfectly ordinary older gentleman.
But appearances can be deceiving: this unimposing man was once a famous detective and his dog isn’t an ordinary mutt either – he can talk! When a mysterious man with a fake black beard comes to town and a music box goes missing from the workshop of clockmaker Mr Ignatius Blossom, the two friends begin to investigate.

Globe Trotters by Arefa Tehsin (Author), Nafisa Nandini Crishna (Illustrator)
Hudhud is horrible to everyone. He polishes off his classmates’ lunches, plays cruel pranks on his teachers and troubles innocent creatures. Until his strange new history teacher decides to set him straight.
The lesson? A curse! Now Hudhud must roam the vast earth . . . with-and as-the greatest migratory animals. And so begins Hudhud’s remarkable journey.
Follow Hudhud on this surreal trip, through the Arctic Ocean and the Sahara Desert, among fragrant flowers and tall grass, and find out all about the inner lives of some majestic animals and the wonders of the wild.

The Cloudfarers by Stephen Alter
Paramount Academy is nothing short of a prison. As Kip comes to terms with this awful military-style school, he makes new friends who have a terrible secret: they are Cloudfarers-a lost tribe of beings from another planet, who have been exiled on earth. And they need his help to get back to their land, away from Principal Captain Lovelock, who is on to them. But time is running out . . .
Join Kip and his friends as they embark on a stormy adventure on the clouds and through dangerous cliffs and mountains to reach a safe haven.

For 10-13 year olds:

The Firework Maker’s Daughter by Philip Pullman
What Lila wants to be more than anything else in the world is . . . a Firework-Maker!
But firework-making is not just about being able to make Crackle-Dragons and Golden Sneezes. There is also one special secret: every Firework-Maker must make a perilous journey to face the terrifying Fire-Fiend!
Not knowing that she needs special protection to survive the Fire-Fiend’s flames, Lila sets off alone. Her friends, Chulak and Hamlet – the King’s white elephant – race after her. But can they possibly reach her in time?

Maths Sutras From Around The World: Speed Calculations On Your Fingertips by Gaurav Tekriwal
Learn how to be quick and better at Maths with this well-researched book that has an amazing collection of mathematical techniques from around the world. Explore ingenious maths concepts and systems, and try your hand at popular puzzles like KenKen, Kakuro and Alphametics. Who says maths can’t be fun?

My First Book of Money by Ravi Subramanian and Shoma Narayanan
They say time is money. But they never really tell you why. They say money doesn’t grow on trees. But they don’t tell you where it comes from. Aman and Anya are as clueless about cash as you are. Then, they start asking questions. Egged on by clever Dadi and forthcoming Mom and Dad, Aman and Anya learn what finances are really all about.
So go ahead! Read on for a rollercoaster ride through the world of money.
—————–
Look out for our Independence Day reading challenge next week!