18 hours ago
Books to teach children about India's rich history and culture
The Indian children's publishing industry has sounded the bugle for a new kind of revolution — one that makes reading history cool. From graphic novels to fictionalised stories set against the backdrop of major historical events, children's authors are exploring interesting ways to bring context and nuances that will make Indian history come alive for children. Here are some recommended reads:
'Songs of Freedom' series (Duckbill) by multiple authors
These stories follow the life of a child living in India grappling with the effects of an event in the struggle for Indian Independence allowing young readers to understand what life may have been like during the freedom struggle.
'After Midnight: A History of Independent India' (Penguin) by Meghaa Gupta
What happened when the British left India? How did a country so divided unite to become the country we know and love today? From unifying the princely states to a single-minded focus on progress and development, this book details everything that has happened from 1947 to today.
'565: The Dramatic Story of Unifying India' (Hachette) by Mallika Ravikumar
The amazing story of how a team persuaded 565 princely states to join the independent nation of India to become one nation.
'History Unpacked' (Duckbill) by Saisudha Acharya
How much do we know about Ancient India? This book will unwrap the connection ancient India had to the rest of the world in a rib-tickling, laugh-out-loud manner! Reading history has never been more fun!
'A History of South India for Children' (Hachette) by Pradeep Chakravarthy
Take a trip to South India and read about what life was like when the Pandyas, Cholas, Cheras, and other famous dynasties were in power.
'Travelling Treasures' (Hachette) by Mala Kumar
Find out how all the things we take for granted today — from ketchup to corn and steel tumblers to umbrellas — came to India. This is an amazing, alphabetical journey through history.
'The Puffin History of India' by Roshen Dalal
A comprehensive book, detailing history from the Indus Valley Civilisation all the way to Independent India in 1947 — this book is well researched and a joy to read.
'A Children's History of India in a 100 Objects' (Puffin) by Devika Cariapa
The fascinating history of India told through 100 treasures that have shaped our nation in a manner that will fascinate and enthral the reader.
'The People of the Indus' (Penguin) by Nikhil Gulati with Jonathan Mark Kenoyer
When a graphic novel crosses paths with ancient Indian history, the reader gets a book that will educate, fascinate, and make immediate history buffs of even the most discerning reader.
'The Book of Emperors: An Illustrated History of the Mughals' (Puffin) by Ashwitha Jayakumar and Nikhil Gulati
Get acquainted with Mughal emperors as though they are people you know and mingle with. Jaykumar's amazing research brings the Mughals to life in one of the more fantastic ways to learn about India's history.
'Krishna Deva Raya: King of Kings' (Hachette) by Roopa Pai and Archana Sreenivasan
A lively, richly illustrated retelling of the life and legacy of the Vijayanagara Empire's greatest ruler, Krishna Deva Raya, for young readers.
'India's Freedom Story' (HarperCollins) by Ira Saxena and Nilima Sinha
An engaging, accessible journey through India's struggle for independence, brought to life for young readers with vivid storytelling and historical insight.
'Girls of India' series (Puffin) by multiple authors
Step into the annals of history with this fiction series where young girls tackle challenges and make their mark.
'The Missing Rocks of Hampi' (BluOne Ink) by Mala Kumar
Two mysteries, both set in Hampi. While Devyani and her siblings, 'The Seekers', go about solving a mystery to help their mother in modern India, we also travel back to Vijayanagara in 1407 to help Subha unravel a plot against the kingdom
'Bhimrao Ambedkar: The Boy Who Asked Why' (Tulika) by Sowmya Rajendran
An inspiring picture-book biography of B.R. Ambedkar, tracing his childhood curiosity and determination to challenge injustice.
'Ahimsa' (Scholastic) by Supriya Kelkar
A moving historical novel about a young girl whose life changes when her mother joins Gandhi's freedom movement, challenging her to stand up for justice and equality.
'A Children's History of India' (Rupa Publications) by Subhadra Sen Gupta
A captivating, child-friendly retelling of India's history, weaving together key events, cultures, and personalities from ancient times to the present.
Podcasts
'India Unveiled' by Rakesh Soni
'Empire' by William Dalrymple and Anita Soni
The writer is founder of Mother of Readers, a platform championing Indian children's literature.
