In the Nepalese Borderlands, twelve-year-old orphan Nandu realizes his destiny as a “mahout” (elephant driver). Through a vivid jungle setting and Nandu’s first-person narration, this story reveals the rich diversity of the natural world and the connection between humans and animals. (Grades 4-7)
2017
Maya
The loss of her father and a blackout in her Indian city combine to distress Maya. Her mother’s bedtime tale of a legendary banyan tree kindles the child’s imagination, bringing her comfort and soothing memories of her father. Alluring illustrations of the lush dream landscape and animals Maya visualizes will engage readers. (Grades K-3)