Set in Ladakh, this story is about a young blind boy who lives with his grandmother. It delivers the message that specially-abled persons are no different from others and in fact suggests that they have different capabilities. It also introduces the reader to the culture of the people of Ladakh and demonstrates the importance of community. (Grades K-3)
Young Readers
The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh
Harpreet Singh is a practicing Sikh and adores colors. He has a different colored patka, or head covering, for every occasion. But, when his family moves to a new city, everything feels grey. Will he find a way to make life vibrant again? (Grades Pre-K-2)
Following My Paint Brush
Following My Paint Brush is the story of Dulari Devi, a domestic helper who went on to become an artist in the Mithila style of folk painting from Bihar, eastern India. (Grade 5 & under)
The Wooden Sword
Disguised in servant’s clothes, an Afghani shah slips out of his palace to learn more about his people. When he encounters a poor Jewish shoemaker faithful that everything will turn out just as it should, the shah grows curious. Vowing that no harm will befall the poor man, he decides to test that faith. (Grades K-5).
The Elephant’s Friend and Other Tales from Ancient India
Drawing from three books of best-loved Indian folktales — Hitopadesha Tales, Jataka Tales, and Panchantra Tales — this graphic storybook collection, alive with kid-friendly illustrations, is infused with humor and warmth. (Grades K-4)
Gandhi: A March to the Sea
Mohandas Gandhi’s 24-day March to the Sea, from March 12 to April 5, 1930, was a pivotal moment in India’s quest to become an independent country no longer ruled by Great Britain. (Grades 3 and up)
The Library Bus
Pari, a young Afghan girl, hits the road with her mother, who operates the only library bus in Kabul. Together, they travel through the countryside, lending books to girls along the way. This book captures the excitement and feeling of freedom of a child learning how to read.
American as Paneer Pie
Lekha, the only Indian American kid in her small town, feels like she must be two versions of herself. At school she is embarrassed by her Indian culture and tries to avoid hurtful comments from classmates. But when a new Indian family moves into town, Lekha rethinks her approach.
Chaiwala!
When their train makes a 10-minute stop at the Jaipur station, a young girl and her mother dash to get in line for chai. Waiting for her milky spiced tea, she experiences the delicious sights, smells and sounds of the Chaiwala’s cart. Mmmm! (PreK-K)
Bye, Bye, Motabhai
Pavan, an over-worked camel in the city of Ahmedabad, India, hates his job. He often dreams of being a racing camel in Dubai. But hitched to a heavy vegetable cart and with his owner Motabhai around, how is this possible? (Grades pre-K-3)