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Must-read books of August

We know that the little ones are busy adoring the blue sky these days turning into purple-pink and are wondering whether to mutter ‘Oh! August is finally here!’ or ‘Aww! It’s only August’. So, taking care of their visual palette, we intend to captivate their attention with our vibrant and colourful covers of our latest releases in August and promise to keep them entertained, engrossed, and ecstatic. The curated list ranges from care to courage, mantra to nostalgia, and struggle to success. It’s time for you to make some space in your bookshelves for these amazing titles.

Here is a list of our recommendations for August.

 

A Giant Leap
A Giant Leap || Thomas Scotto,  Translated by Nakashi Chowdhry

This is one of the books in the One Day Elsewhere series. It’s 20 July 1969. At home, June is waiting for a big event, the biggest of her life: the birth of the baby that’s in her mother’s belly. But in the hospital, on the streets, everyone else is waiting for another big event: a man is about to walk on the Moon.

 

My Father’s Courage
My Father’s Courage || Anne Loyer,  Translated by Nakashi Chowdhry

Aslam helplessly witnesses his father’s arrest: he disobeyed the British authorities by harvesting salt-a heavily taxed item. The boy is assailed with doubt. Why did his father break the law? Why doesn’t sea salt belong to everyone? When he learns that Gandhiji is going to be marching through his village of Jalalpore, Aslam feels hopeful. He is the only one who can oppose the authorities and, maybe, free his father.

 

The Black Tide
The Black Tide || Marie Lenne-Fouquet

Yann, the son of a fisherman in Portsall, loves selling fish at the port with his father. He lays out the ice, puts the fish on it and plays shop. But one day, the sea is very rough. The storm and the wind bring a terrible smell and devastating news: there has been a shipwreck and an oil spill!

 

Shyam, Our Little Krishna
Shyam, Our Little Krishna || Devdutt Pattanaik

In this all-in-one storybook, picture book and colouring book, India’s most-loved mythologist Devdutt Pattanaik introduces the story of Krishna, fondly known as Shyam, to a new generation of readers. Told simply in his inimitable style, Shyam, Our Little Krishna is perfect as a read-aloud to acquaint young readers with the beauty, wisdom and love that Krishna embodied. The book is curated with fascinating bite-sized stories, myths and trivia about the young god, and it features over forty playful artworks accompanied by pages dedicated for colouring.

 

How the Earth Got Its Beauty
How the Earth Got Its Beauty || Sudha Murty

Have you ever stopped to marvel at the earth’s beauty: at snow-capped mountains and oceans so deep; at colourful flowers and extraordinary animals? The tale of how such beauty came into existence is a curious one indeed. India’s favourite storyteller brings alive this timeless tale with her inimitable wit and simplicity. Tricked out with enchanting illustrations, this gorgeous chapter book is the ideal introduction for beginners to the world of Sudha Murty.

 

10 Indian Heroes Who Help People Live With Dignity
10 Indian Heroes Who Help People Live With Dignity || Somak Ghoshal

This book tells the stories of ten Indian heroes who have been working in diverse fields to help society’s most vulnerable live a better life–from securing mobility rights for people with disability to abolishing the practice of manual scavenging. While their challenges are different, what they have in common is the desire to see all human beings live a life of dignity. Journalist Somak Ghoshal writes about the below-mentioned women and men who are trying to make the world a more just and equitable place for everyone.

  1. Irom Sharmila Chanu
  2. Aruna Roy
  3. Bezwada Wilson
  4. Medha Patkar
  5. Dr Devi Shetty
  6. Bhanwari Devi
  7. Menaka Guruswamy
  8. Anup Surendranath
  9. Satinath Sarangi
  10. Mahantesh GK

Bringing Back Grandpa

Bringing Back Grandpa || Madhuri Kamat

As his Grandpa gets ill and more confused, Xerxes’ life becomes correspondingly difficult. There are boys at school playing all kinds of mean tricks on him and his mother wants him to excel, as usual-but it is hard when his main ally Grandpa is not himself. How is Xerxes going to cope with the different things people expect of him? Will he make peace in school? And most importantly, can he help Grandpa become better?

 

Let’s Go Time Travelling Again!
Let’s Go Time Travelling Again! || Subhadra Sen Gupta

How did Indian mulmuls make it into Cleopatra’s wardrobe? Who popularized the Mahabharata in households across the country? Did our ancestors really identify Jupiter and Saturn without even a telescope?

Find the answers to these and many other unusual questions about the India of yesterday. Go time travelling through the alleys of history and explore the many occupations that have existed through time-from dancers and playwrights to farmers and doctors. Sift through snapshots of the rich life led by ordinary Indians and discover unexpected titbits about language, food and culture.

Told through portraits of children growing up in the villages, towns and courts of our country, this sequel to the award-winning Let’s Go Time Travelling is a vivid glimpse into our past.

 

A Cello on the Wall
A Cello on the Wall || Adèle Tariel, Translated by Nakashi Chowdhry

On an ordinary afternoon in West Berlin, Charlie discovers a cello that once belonged to his grandmother. His parents had fled East Berlin with this cello many years ago, while Charlie,s grandparents still live on the other side of the wall. But the year is 1989 and revolt rumbles in the streets of Berlin to tear down the wall. This book is another one in the One Day Elsewhere series.

 

Postbox Kashmir
Postbox Kashmir || Divya Arya

Do only Muslims live in Kashmir?

Why do girls in Kashmir do stone pelting?

Whom do they want freedom from?

Can you imagine being confined to the four walls of your home with no internet, no social media?

Are Kashmiris really invisible to the rest of the country?

These are some of the questions two teenagers–Saumya in Delhi and Duaa in Kashmir–asked through letters they exchanged over almost three years.

Framing these letters is the detailed history and commentary provided by Divya Arya, a BBC journalist who asked them to be pen pals, which places their conversations against the backdrop of the political history and turbulent present of Kashmir and India. Postbox Kashmir takes on the challenging task of attempting to portray life in Kashmir from the perspective of the young minds growing inside it and providing a context of understanding for the young generation watching it from the outside.

Waiting to take the bait

One Hero. Many Monsters. Before I came to be known as the greatest sailor in the world, I was a young monster who fell in love. As all legendary love stories go, things were…well, not smooth sailing. And of course, there was the problem to the Armageddon.

 

Kevin Missal’s new book Sinbad promises thrill, fun and adventure. Here is an excerpt from the book.


PRESENT DAY

BASRA, PORT OF ARABIA

 

The corpse was laid there under the darkening sky.

And Sinbad watched it, in silence, from the bushes.

He could hear his own breathing, his blood pumping in his ears. It was late evening. His almond eyes were focused on the beach, hawk-eyed. Owls hooted. The waves rolled and the blurry skies darkened.

Any time now…

‘Let’s hope the blasted ghoul takes the bait,’ said Husayn, his blue eyes scanning the area. He flicked his frizzy, curly hair back and looked at his friend who crouched down beside him. ‘There’s a lot of money we’re gonna get out of this, tee-hee,’ he said, referring to the tavern owner who had hired Sinbad to end the horror of the Qutrub.

Sinbad turned his head and looked up, his onyx hair falling over his forehead. ‘For the hundredth time, it’s not a ghoul. It’s a subclass of jinnis.’

‘Apples and oranges, to be honest.’ Husayn shook his head in dismay. ‘How do you kill it?’

‘You can’t’ Sinbad signed. ‘You trap them and then send them back. Or keep them locked in a ring or something. And one of the easiest ways to do it is by knowing their true name.’

‘Well, whatever it is, you have no clue how tough it was to get that,’ said Husayn, pointing to the dark mound that they had been eyeing. ‘Let’s see: paid the gravedigger; dug up the ground with him; got drenched in mud; and then finally got it for our friend, the Qutrub, here because you said it would be the perfect bait.’

‘Well, at least you were helpful this time.’ Sinbad rolled his eyes and decided to look at the stars that remained still, distracting himself from the beach. It was only a few times in his life that he had caught them blinking.

‘I’m always helpful, all right?’ Husayn said, his voice growing louder in protest.

Sinbad darted his eyes back to the beach and the corpse. ‘No, please, do yell some more and let the whole world know what we are doing.’

‘Apologies!’ Husayn whispered. ‘And the world knows already. That thing has already killed twenty of our travellers. If more would become its victims, taverns might as well close down.

‘I know.’ Sinbad sighed.

‘You said it’s a jinni, though, right?’ Husayn asked. ‘But aren’t jinnis like wish-granting baboons?’

‘Nor all,’ Sinbad said and shook his head ever so slightly. ‘Only the Marids. While the thing we are waiting for right now is called a Qutrub. Strange creatures. They come from the jinni world of Barzakh. But what I don’t understand is, Qutrubs feed on the dead, and thus are seen around graveyards. Then why is it attacking the living?’ He narrowed his eyes in contemplation.

But before he could mull it over, Sinbad say the unlikely: A couple walking on the shore, a few yards away from their bait, oblivious to it and the gruesome presence that it would invite. They were busy chatting and laughing. Barefoot. The girl was wearing her veil and the man a sailor’s tunic.

‘Humans. Always butting in when they are not supposed to.’ Sinbad gritted his teeth.

‘Aren’t you a human yourself, my dear friend?’ Husayn cheekily asked.

‘Well…’ Sinbad said, ‘the Qutrub would attack them then. Fresh blood.’

‘Um, Sinbad?’ Husayn tapped on his shoulder.

‘What?’ he snapped as his eyes followed the couple’s steps, hoping they won’t notice the trap that had been set on the beach. But the smell would be a dead giveaway!

And they were close…getting closer…

‘Um, Sinbad? Would you please turn around?’ Husayn’s voice had turned into an almost high-pitched scream.

‘What?’ shrieked Sinbad, irritated, as he turned towards Husayn. And it was then that he saw it. A ghastly eight-foot-tall creature – skeletal, scarlet red, dressed in rags. Its elongated mouth and slits, in place of a nose, quivered. A long, black ponytail on its otherwise bald head was the only hair it had. Its ribs were visibly jutting out of its diaphragm. Even the spine was visible, protruding from the skinless skeleton. But the eyes – they were pitch-black as if the creature had no irises. It was so close to him, breathing hard. And it was then that their eyes met.

If that weren’t bad enough, then came a bone-chilling scream. From the side of the beach were the unknowing couple stood.

Great. They found the corpse.

A queen in an unfamiliar kingdom

Prithvimahadevi’s journey is uphill. Having been married off to her father’s enemy in a peace-making gesture, she finds herself betrayed by those closest to her, and ends up alone in an unknown kingdom, alienated among people who are disdainful towards her. Yet her resolve only strengthens. Read an excerpt for a glimpse into Devika Rangachari’s powerful protagonist:

 

A carriage sent by the Bhaumakara king waits for me in the palace courtyard. It is plain and square with none of the embellishments that my father’s royal carriages routinely bear. Its horses, too, have clearly been selected more for their hardiness than their beauty.

It is hot and bright, and the entire court has assembled to see me off. The silence all around deafens me—this is a parting that signifies defeat and submission. And this is the silence of anger and grief.

The Bhaumakara attendants wait by the carriage, impassive.

I have already bid farewell in private to my father and brother. Yayati does not say much but clings to me as if he is remembering a time when we meant so much more to each other. The ties of blood are the strongest of all bonds, after all, and who are we to gainsay it?

‘Will you come to see me soon?’ I ask, my voice rough with unspilled tears.

front cover of Queen of Earth
Queen of Earth||Devika Rangachari

He nods but glances towards our father as if seeking permission from him. He is increasingly afraid to hold a single original thought or opinion in his head—and this is what has driven a wedge between us.

My father holds me close. ‘Be well. And do not lose hope. I will make it worth your while.’

I am puzzled. What can he possibly mean? I search his face for an answer and open my mouth to frame a question. He silences me with a look.

I am drawn away into a round of weeping goodbyes with my attendants.

His words will eventually make sense to me but for now, I let them slip and walk towards the carriage, resolute. Whatever happens, I will face the future with courage and fortitude. I will be true to my name.

The journey is a nightmare. The carriage has been built more for service than comfort. The wood is hard and digs into my body and the entire frame jolts unbearably. I am repeatedly sick and seem incapable of holding down the smallest morsel of food or even a sip of water.

Both sets of attendants are distressed, mine and the ones that the Bhaumakaras have sent. They can do little to alleviate my discomfort.

I see nothing of the landscape we pass; my eyes are shut tight. I finally huddle down on the hard bench, insensible to the hours that pass, floating in and out of a state of consciousness.

I am dimly aware of someone—my aunt, by
the sound of her voice—coaxing me to suck a slice
of lemon that makes me retch all the more and of someone—her again—stroking my forehead and murmuring soothing words that ultimately lull me into a spell of blessed sleep.

When I eventually wake, it is with the knowledge that the worst has passed. I am weak but whole, and it is a relief to know this. My aunt is by my side, her face full of travel weariness and deep concern in the dim light of approaching darkness.

‘Two days,’ she says in response to my unspoken query. She shakes her head. ‘You have never been this ill before. Perhaps you are not used to the rigours of travel. Or perhaps you have worried yourself into this state.’

A Bhaumakara soldier hastens by to tell us that we are nearing journey’s end.

I look out at the unfamiliar landscape. I have seen nothing of the forests that we have travelled through to reach the coast, but we seem to have emerged from them into an area of tall trees brushing against the sky, palm and coconut by the look of them. A cool breeze blows in, reminding me that we are near the water. A river shimmers by and I can see the dim outlines of boats
on it. This must be the Vaitarani, I think. I know that Viraja nestles between the Mahanadi and the Vaitarani, and that the latter runs closer to the city. My spirits lift slightly and the wind eases the ache in my head.

I see the pallor on my face in the small jewelled mirror that my aunt hands me. There are lines of exhaustion around my eyes and I can taste the sour tang of sickness in my mouth. This is not a propitious time for my new family to view me, but it is not in my hands. Let them know how arduous the journey has been and how much I have endured just to meet their peremptory demands.

When the carriage eventually stops, my head swims. I close my eyes to steady myself.

***

 

Queen of Earth is a complex and beautiful story of a young woman who holds her own in the most hostile of circumstances.

Meet 10 Indian Champions Who are Fighting to Save the Planet

In 10 Indian Champions Who are Fighting to Save the Planet, by Bijal Vachharajani and Radha Rangarajan, we are introduced to ten people who are contributing toward the well-being of the planet. A champion is a person who vigorously supports or defends another, or a cause. Those are the sort of champions you will meet in this book—and their cause is to save this planet. Through their work—writing, researching, drawing, challenging, protecting—they make the Earth a better place for all of its denizens.

Let’s get introduced to them!


ROMULUS WHITAKER: THE SNAKE MAN OF INDIA

Attempting to save the planet by championing reptiles:

Romulus Whitaker has been researching and protecting snakes and crocodiles, and busting myths and stereotypes about reptiles.

*

PARINEETA DANDEKAR

Attempting to save the planet by keeping conversations about water flowing: Parineeta Dandekar strives to protect rivers and water bodies through her writing and research, and acts as a bridge between policymakers, ecologists, scientists and people.

*

ROHAN ARTHUR

Attempting to save the planet by deep diving into coral reef systems: Rohan Arthur studies how climate change affects the denizens of coral reefs, and brings the world’s attention to what is happening under water.

*

VIDYA ATHREYA

Attempting to save the planet by researching human- animal conflict: Vidya Athreya studies leopard ecology when they live among humans in agricultural landscapes, and helps citizen initiatives around the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in Mumbai to spread awareness on living with leopards.

*

APARAJITA DATTA

Attempting to save the planet by studying and conserving hornbills: In her work in Arunachal Pradesh, Aparajita Datta ensures a safe space for the species and works with indigenous communities.

*

JAY MAZOOMDAAR

Attempting to save the planet by reporting on environment and conservation: Jay Mazoomdaar unearthed the disappearance of tigers in Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan, and other wildlife crimes, and makes sure that wildlife continues to get space in the media.

*

MINAL PATHAK

Attempting to save the planet by making the science of climate change accessible to all: Minal Pathak is part of teams that write reports on climate change that tell the world what our future holds for us.

*

ROHAN CHAKRAVARTY

Attempting to save the planet by drawing funny comics about the environment: Rohan Chakravarty draws attention to climate change, wildlife threats and the splendours of nature with generous doses of humour and gorgeous art.

*

KAVITHA KURUGANTI

Attempting to save the planet by starting conversations about farming and food security: Kavitha Kuruganti helps amplify the voices of farmers to get them better prices and respect for their hard work. She works to ensure safe food
is grown in India, campaigns against genetically modified privatized seeds and champions sustainable farm livelihoods and farmer rights.

*

LAXMI KAMBLE AND DHARAVI ROCKS

Attempting to save the planet making music out of waste: Dharavi Rocks creates awareness about waste management and recycling. Working with Laxmi Kamble, the band uses reclaimed plastic in and around Dharavi and encourages those working in recycling waste to speak out and find new career and creative options.


For every problem, there are thousands of eco-champions who work tirelessly to find solutions, protect and conserve, research and document, fight and negotiate to save the last remaining frontiers of the natural world. Read more about them here!

 

The Dawn of Wonder: Life Enhancing Experiences from ‘Dawn: The Warrior Princess of Kashmir’

It is A. D. 3000. Dawn faces great peril. To fight a primeval enemy that is greater than all of humanity, a young Dawn needs the ultimate weapon sheathed inside the lost but timeless Niti folktales of Kashmir. Kernels of wisdom nestle deep inside these mysterious Niti tales and must be teased out by her and her band of outlaws. In search of Niti technology, Dawn  sets off on a tumultuous quest into the unknown in Time and Space. Facing long odds, she has to have the courage of Mahasahasa, the Great Audacity.Dawn is guided by the Elephant-headed Yuva who shares the secrets of Niti. He begins by stating, ‘Imagination gives birth to stories of what humans are and can be. Stories have a unique property—they travel from human to human, and so, they become known as folk stories. These folk stories create a social collective that binds humans and makes them act collaboratively with each other.’

This magical, mystical yet scientific collection of the ultimate traveller tales draws upon Niti, meaning the wise conduct of life,.. As you travel alongside Dawn you will expand, unlock your powers and equip yourself to face any life challenge.Read on for seven counter intuitive yet universal life experience learnings from Rakesh Kaul’s epic Dawn: The Warrior Princess of Kashmir. 


The Dream Weaver said, ‘To be good is to give back as much as you receive.

‘The yogi was taught, from time to time, to balance his consuming desires by alternating them with periods of abstinence and giving. You see, my children, yoga purified humanity. It is this continuous exchange, this balance of these two contradictory experiences—of receiving and giving in equal measures—that brings out the highest good in a person.’

*

The Master Thief said: ‘To be addicted is to concede your volition.’

‘At this table, we find ourselves naked and equal in only one respect. We are both slaves of an addiction, no different than Yudhisthira, to an identical craving that grips our mind. It mercilessly binds us and drives us relentlessly.’

*

Dawn said: ‘To be human is to be free.

‘Health is the unrestricted movement of the body, mind and heart. This movement is powered by the bioplasmic Life Breath. The property of our Life Breath is freedom. It is this freedom that leads to creativity and joy.’

*

Vidya, Dawn’s mother said: ‘To know the universe one must know the self.’

‘The entire Universe exists inside the Self, no different than a tree that exists inside the seed. But to know the Self, any division between the Self and the Universe must fall and become one.’

*

The Mynah Bird said to Dawn: ‘To achieve self-actualization one must accept the fact of death.’

‘The self-realized people know that they are one with Maha and are part of the endless cycle of creation and rebirth of life,’ said Kira, looking at the moon that glowed in the black-ink sky. ‘Death holds no fear.’

*

The Lama Warrior said: ‘To fight injustice man must join forces.’

‘Slaves are forced to place their trust in their master’s rules. This Niti story tells us that free humans place their trust in each other.’ He opened his eyes and looked squarely at me. ‘And that is how we will get justice and victory.’

*

Guru Patanjali said: ‘To focus on goals one must learn to control the mind.’

‘The senses want to rest in peace. They want neither more of what you like or less of what you dislike. It is desire that is ruined by impure Life Breath that arises in humans like Arman, which creates one’s own slavery. And it is only the purification of yoga that gives you the freedom to reach that equilibrium.’

 


 

Rakesh Kaul writes: ‘The Niti story befittingly delivers an expansion that miraculously offers joy even in suffering. Each reader will experience a different story based on their own emotional resonance as our tale twists and turns across Time and Space and through different ages and eras. Irrespectively, it will entertain, educate, empower and enable as all folk stories have done since the dawn of time.’

The author of the revolutionary bestseller The Last Queen of Kashmir creates another pioneering, literary triumph in a sci-fi saga rooted in a culture that reveals eternal truths as it traverses the terrains of the Kashmir Valley.

To experience more the wonder of timeless stories and eternal lessons, read Dawn: The Warrior Princess of Kashmir!

 

Do YOU have what it takes to be a detective?

‘The youngest and coolest teen detective in India’ is back!

No case is bizarre enough for detective Shrilok, a chaiwala with a penchant for deduction, disguises and drama, and his partner in crime, Rohan Doctor. India’s favourite teen detective is back! After taking Mumbai by storm, Shrilok and his best friend, Rohan, are now chasing criminals far and wide, even landing up in London. The stakes are high for the chaiwala-turned-super-sleuth, with murder mysteries, secret codes, museum robberies, an exam-paper racket and a terrorist from the past.

Our desi Sherlock always rises to the challenge, but can you do the same? To help you find out if you have what it takes to be a detective, we have conducted this detailed analysis of Shrilok’s brilliant methods and his fascinating personality to come up with The Ultimate Detective Test!

See how many of these questions you can honestly say ‘yes’ to, and use this foolproof scoring system to determine your Shrilok Quotient!

 0-3 Affirmatives—Innocent bystander

4-6 Affirmatives—Trusty companion and chronicler

7-10 Affirmatives—Youngest and coolest teen detective!

 

While a little advertisement is useful, a good detective needs to go undercover occasionally. Do you have the necessary discretion to refrain from wanting to spread the news of your talents far and wide?

“Shrilok Homeless is discreet and good for undercover work, I like blowing my own horn sometimes, I admit, but “Detective Shrilok would be like walking with an entire marching band!”

It’s nice to mind your own business, but a detective needs to poke his nose into other’s business and sniff out trouble. Is your nose just a little longer to enable this?

“He had grown an inch taller over the last month, but his straight nose was the same, half an inch longer than perfect.”

A good detective needs something to keep their energy up! Chai gives Shrilok wings! What about you?

“Shrilok finished three cups of tea before he got an idea.”

Even the best and most private of detectives needs some help from the police force to be taken seriously? Have you helped your friendly neighbourhood policeperson yet?

“Upon reaching, we met our friend, Divya Lokhande who had helped us with many of our cases in the past. She had been recently promoted as the assistant commissioner of police. We filled her in on the details of the case. She is usually very calm and collected but our news had her gushing with excitement.”

 A detective needs a hobby apart from detecting to look busy and stave off unnecessary questions. Do you have any musical talent—can you play the flute, the cello or perhaps the violin?

“Shrilok played his flute during the journey and avoided any talk about the case.”

 A detective does not dismiss the most mundane of evidence. Do you have the observational skills to spot even an unassuming bead of water, and analyze it correctly?

“Shrilok, who had been quiet till then suddenly commented, ‘He will not be able to read. He’s left his glasses near the bathroom sink.” “That I wear glasses is obvious from the marks they have left on the bridge of my nose. But how did you know I had left them in the bathroom quizzed Mr Ansari standing up to fetch his specs. “Simple hai! There is a bead of water on your neck. The AC is on so it cannot be sweat. Therefore it’s obvious you went to the bathroom to wash your face and took off your glasses. When you wiped your face you missed that spot.”

Sometimes it’s not very easy to see your friends as possible criminals. Can you set your feelings aside and analyze ALL possible suspects, even the ones you really like?

“My motto is to suspect everyone.”

While a true detective takes a while to trust people, he must be able to inspire trust in others, even criminals. Do you have the kind of persona that just makes people want to confide their deepest, darkest secrets to you?

“Bro you’re a pro at winning trust. So many people have confessed their crimes to you in the past’, I reminded him.”

 With great power comes great responsibility. You may be blessed with extraordinary deductive genius, but will you always choose the right path and remain a super sleuth and not turn into a criminal mastermind?

“Being an orphan and a chaiwala, spending my days on the streets of Mumbai, I had to make the choice between good and evil quite early in life’. And the choices he made transformed him into who he is today.”

 No man is an island, and detectives too need a sea of informers! Do you have the right networking skills to get you to the top of the detective league?

“Once fifteen eager kids were in the dining hall I laid out my plan. Shrilok had his own network of informers who collected information for him. I was going to use the very same network to find the detective himself.”

 And most of all, do you have a best friend and eternal companion, who praises your achievements unabashedly, whose friendship survives (fake) bullets, and who saves you at the very end?

“I ran to where Shrilok was standing. ‘Rohan bhidu you saved my life!’ he yelled, giving me a hug… Shrilok and I, stood side by side ready to face another day.”


Find out what happens next in Shrilok Homeless: The Ultimate Adventures Volume 2

Eight incredible career ideas for your child to Reignite their future

Following the success of Reignited: Scientific Pathways to a Brighter Future, Srijan Pal Singh— CEO and Co-Founder of  Dr. A.P.J Abdul Kalam Centre and former technology and policy advisor to Dr Kalam at the Indian Institute of Space Science and Techology— pens yet another significant book for students. Reignited 2: Emerging Technologies of Tomorrow bares all about some exciting and cutting-edge fields in sciences, such as automobiles; energy; astrobiology; environment and defense technologies; and a lot more!

Read on to if you want to know how to ignite a path in some of the most exciting and futuristic technologies out there!


AUTOMOBILE EXPERT

 What makes it Reignited?

The automobile sector is one of the most formidable sectors to have a career in with rapidly advancing requirements ranging from electric cars and self-driving, completely automated vehicles to 3-D printed automobiles that will allow you automatically print your selected car—exactly the way you want it!

“An expert in automobiles should definitely have excellent knowledge of the sciences, especially the physics of motion and friction. You need to go beyond textbooks and read articles on the Internet about the latest trends in cars, especially electrical engines and the computer programmes that enable cars to selfdrive. Several free car magazines are also available online, and you can find them in libraries too. With the need to constantly come up with newer, sleeker and aesthetically superior models, there is always room for product designers and artistic minds in the sector.”

~

 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST

 What makes it Reignited?

With global warming on the rise and weather change very apparent, environmental scientists are crucial assets to any nation’s economy and growth. Your future job, as an environmental scientist, will not only involve protecting humans from climate change but also endeavoring to protect every one of these unique and vivid species that fill the spectrum of life.

“Environmental science offers you a wide array of fields to work in, such as global warming, pollution of air, water quality, soil quality. It is a diverse career; you can take up a specialized course for your bachelor’s degree itself or do a bachelor’s in physics, chemistry, geography, botany or engineering and then pursue a specialized master’s degree in environmental science. Also, keenly follow geography and read about issues related to the environment on the Internet and in libraries. Keep reading and learning, and perhaps you can be the one to shape the environment of other planets, where we may choose to live in the future.”

~

NANOSCIENTIST

What makes it Reignited?

Nanotechnology is the science of working with matter that is in the range of 10-9 metres in dimension but with an even more exciting aspect. When certain materials are brought to nanoscale, they start to show new and unique properties. Nanotechnology can be our solution to almost every problem we face today, be it pollution, disease, superstrong structures and energy.

“Nanoscience has a wide career path as it touches on several different dimensions of application, such as medical science construction, the space sector, botany, agriculture, the environment, to name a few.. You must also keep following the experts in the area. A good expert in nanoscience is able to think laterally, see the problems around us and deploy their knowledge to solve it. The ideal way is that you first become an electrical engineer, textile engineer, automobile engineer, mechanical engineer or agriculture scientist, etc. and then start applying the principles of nano in your particular field.”

~

AGRICULTURAL SCIENTIST

 What makes it Reignited?

Agriculture may seem like a sleepy corner of the economy, but it’s actually very complex and sophisticated. You can make one of the greatest contributions to humankind if you revolutionize this field, because it touches everything.

“To become an agricultural scientist, you can pursue a variety of subjects. Of course, the easiest route is to study courses in agricultural science, which are available at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. Such courses often deal with geology, chemistry, food sciences and biosciences. You need to develop a keen understanding of biology, both botany and zoology. The knowledge of chemistry is also very important especially in producing fertilizers. Geography will give you the tools to study weather patterns, which is also an important factor in agriculture. Modern vertical farms also deploy an array of agricultural data scientists who have the knowledge of computers and mathematics.”

 ~

 WEAPONS SCIENTIST

 What makes it Reignited?

Weapons science is a truly global topic, and nearly all countries in the world now have a great demand for experts in this domain, given the tension among nations to become superpowers in the world, and due to the fight over resources. While the military handles the operation of weapons, a weapons engineer handles the thinking, planning and designing of these weapons.

“A master’s degree in security studies, armament engineering, microwave and radar engineering or engineering in combat vehicles will enhance your chances of securing a career in the field of weapons engineering. In addition to this education, you must possess the ability to think critically and have strong analytical skills to become a weapons scientist.”

~

ASTROBIOLOGY

What makes it Reignited?

Are we alone in the universe?

The branch of science that deals with life in the universe is called astrobiology. There will be two major quests for astrobiologists of the future: first, to continue the mission of searching for alien life, beyond Planet Earth; second, to discover and create extraterrestrial habitation for humankind and other life forms on new planets.

“This interdisciplinary field requires an understanding of life and the environment that supports it, as well as planetary and cosmic phenomena. It encompasses knowledge and technique from many fields, including physics, chemistry, astronomy, biology, ecology, planetary science, geography, mechanics and geology. There is no specific, defined course for you to study to become an astrobiologist. However, you can enrol in massive open source online courses, or MOOCs, offered by several international universities to nurture your interests.”

 ~

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE EXPERT

 What makes it Reignited?

Artificial intelligence is one of the frontier sectors of human advancement. Every major product and service today is now deploying AI to enhance its efficacy. This means an increased demand for experts who can design better, more robust and more effective artificial intelligence algorithms.

“Complicated computer software and programmes, automation and robotics characterize a career in AI. Since it is an emerging field, three things are key to becoming an expert in AI: curiosity, perseverance and continuously keeping yourself updated. An AI programmer needs to have problem-solving abilities, both creative and critical thinking, and a strong maths and computers background. You would need to complete your graduation in computer science or engineering (mechanical, electrical, robotic, computer) and then enrol in a master’s degree, offered by several universities abroad.”

 ~

ENERGY SCIENTIST

What makes it Reignited?

As energy scientists of tomorrow, your goal will be to amplify clean power sources like solar and discover new sources of energy such as Nuclear power from thorium, antimatter energy or zero-point energy.

“First is the most obvious choice: pursuing engineering in electrical or similar fields. Such engineers work on improving modern energy sources, such as solar, wind, geothermal and nuclear power. The second approach towards a career in energy is the field of scientific research, primarily in the subject of physics, wherein one gets to deal with antimatter, zero-point energy and similar concepts. You need to keep yourself updated on the latest developments related to energy generation and storage methods.”


 This must-have guidebook will provide budding scientists 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!

Meet India’s Favourite Teen Detective aka ‘Shrilok Homeless’

India’s favourite teen detective is back!

After taking Mumbai by storm, Shrilok and his best friend, Rohan, are now chasing criminals far and wide, even landing up in London. The stakes are high for the chaiwala-turned-super-sleuth, with murder mysteries, secret codes, museum robberies, an exam-paper racket and a terrorist from the past. Will our desi Sherlock rise to the challenge?

Here is an excerpt from Shrilok Homeless: The Ultimate Adventures Volume 2!


‘I believe you,’ said Shrilok with a twinkle in his eyes. ‘Let’s go back to the third suspect – Daniel Edwards. He made up his mind to kill the old man and take over his property. The only thing he needed was a scapegoat, who could take the blame for the murder. He didn’t have to wait for long. On 24th May, he overheard the butler, Williams, talking about an Indian girl’s phone call to his uncle. Daniel knew about his uncle’s past. When Maumita called again, he listened in on their conversation using the phone in the study. The girl accused Sholto of poisoning her father. She wanted to meet. As he heard their plan to meet take shape, a plan of his own was beginning to form.’

I glanced at Edwards; he was bubbling in fury. Shrilok’s eyes were fixed on him ‘Mr Edwards had a few hours to execute his plan. As we know, the family owns many different businesses. One of them is a tour company in London. Mr Edwards had access to the company files. He knew the tour bus was scheduled to take some Chinese tourists for sightseeing, ending at Tower Bridge at 5:30pm. He called the driver and bribed him to let the tourists out of the bus at exactly p.m. He also advised the driver to disappear for a few weeks.’

‘But if Mr Edwards was on the bridge, why did no not recognize him?’ asked Maumita doubtfully.

‘Because he was in disguise. Daniel entered the theatre for rehearsals but exited as a Chinese man in tourist clothing, complete with a wig of short black hair. I have proof – CCTV cameras outside the theatre caught him on tape and a co-star saw a Chinese man emerge from Daniel’s room. He did not recognize him, of course. The eye make-up was ekdum perfect.’ Shrilok grinned. ‘The rest I could deduce easily. Daniel kept a watch on the bridge, and when he saw Sholto and Maumita meet, he called the driver to let the tourists out, joining them on the bridge. As he got closer to the girl, he took put a gun that had been concealed in his coat and shot Sholto. Daniel disappeared amidst the commotion, tossing the gun in Thames.’

‘These are all baseless allegations. I was nowhere near the bridge!’ shouted Edwards.

Inspector Jordan stood up. ‘Once Detective Shrilok pointed us in the right direction, we didn’t waste any time. We found the driver, and he confessed his role. His calls have been traced.’ He turned to Daniel. ‘You had called him from the telephone booths in Surrey and London. But it was stupid of you to use your mobile to make the last call.’

‘I’m not stupid! There were no bloody phone booths nearby,’ burst out Daniel.


Get to meet the beloved Shrilok yet again in Shrilok Homeless: The Ultimate Adventures Volume 2

6 Lines by Ruskin Bond that will make you smile

Ruskin Bond’s stories have never failed to thrill us and make us laugh. Our growing up years would not have remained the same had it not been for Bond’s hilarious anecdotes.

Here are 6 Ruskin Bond quotes that made us laugh out loud:


Ruskin Bond’s characters always try to do some good… 

Mrs Fisher took one look at the bundle in my arms and let out a shriek. ‘What have you brought here, Bond?’
‘A baby, ma’am. I think it’s a girl. Do you want to adopt it?’

Thick As Thieves

*

The characters are always very talented… whether others appreciate those talents is up for debate

“He went down the lane, trumpeting away, and one or two people shouted at him to ‘Stop that horrible noise!’ Thus he made his way down the next lane, where he was even less welcome and the dogs ran away with their tails between their legs.”

– Ranji the Music Maker

*

Characters do not hesitate to take their pranks to the next level

“On one occasion Grandfather drove Granny to the bank without her recognizing him, that too in a tonga with a white pony.Granny was superstitious about white ponies and avoided them as far as possible. But grandfather, in his tonga driver’s disguise, persuaded her that his white pony was the best behaved little pony in the world.”

The Parrot Who Wouldn’t Talk and Other Stories 

*

Despite their young age the characters are very sensible.

“Suddenly I saw a big male bird emerge from a thicket about a hundred yards away. He stood still and stared at me for a few moments; then, expanding his wings and with his tail erect, he came bounding towards me. Believing discretion to be the better part of valour (at least in that particular situation), I turned and ran towards the fence.”

Panther’s Moon and Other Stories 

*

The adults may not be as sensible as the children….

“Granny should never have entrusted Uncle Ken with the job of taking me to the station and putting me on the train for Delhi. He got me to the station all right, but then proceeded to put me on the wrong train!”

White Mice

*

Ghosts may not be friendly but grandparents don’t mind them.

“‘…Grandfather says he has seen them(ghosts) many times,when he has passed through the ruins late at night. He has seen them playing in the moonlight.’
‘Wasn’t he frightened?’
‘No. Old people don’t mind seeing ghosts.’”

The Wind on Haunted Hill

 


Ruskin Bond’s latest book Coming Round the Mountain: In the Year of Independence is yet another look at the past, in particular one memorable year, 1947, during which a lot happened to Ruskin and those around him. The book is AVAILABLE NOW!

Quiz Yourself: How Much Do you Know about Nanotechnology?

Five Fun Facts From Reignited 2

To get you started on an incredibly fun path to a giant world of very tiny and very powerful particles, take this quick quiz on nanotechnology!


Following the success of Reignited: Scientific Pathways to a Brighter Future, Srijan Pal Singh pens yet another significant book for students. Reignited 2: Emerging Technologies of Tomorrow bares all about some exciting and cutting-edge fields in sciences, such as nanotechnology automobiles; energy; astrobiology; environment and defense technologies; and a lot more!

This must-have guidebook will provide budding scientists 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! One of these really futuristic fields is nanotechnology which works with matter that is in the range of 10-9 metres in dimension!

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