10 books by Indian authors that make for a must-read

Reading books help kids to prepare for academic success. Studies have shown that kids who read regularly tend to perform better in school. This is because reading helps kids develop the skills they need to succeed in school, such as reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills.

Books by Indian authors can provide kids with a window into the rich and diverse culture of India. They can learn about Indian history, traditions, and values. Kids can see themselves reflected in the characters and stories of books by Indian authors. This can help them to feel more connected to their culture and heritage.

Many books by Indian authors deal with themes that are relevant to the lives of Indian kids, such as family, friendship, and identity. This can help kids to feel more understood and connected to the stories they are reading. And what kind of books can kids read?

Here’s the list and why you should read them.

The Blue Umbrella: This classic story by Ruskin Bond is about a young girl named Binya who receives a blue umbrella as a gift. The umbrella is a source of great pride for Binya, but it also makes her the envy of the other villagers. The story explores themes of envy, greed, and kindness.

The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories: This collection of stories by Sudha Murty is full of magic, adventure, and humour. The stories are inspired by Indian folktales and legends, and they teach children important lessons about life.

Taranauts: This science fiction series by Roopa Pai is about a group of four friends who travel through space and time. The books are full of excitement and adventure, and they teach children about science and technology in a fun and engaging way.

The Panchatantra: This ancient collection of animal fables is full of wisdom and wit. The stories teach children important lessons about life, such as the importance of honesty, hard work, and friendship.

Malgudi Days: If you have not already read these stories, this collection of short stories by RK Narayan is set in the fictional town of Malgudi in South India. The stories are full of humor, warmth, and nostalgia. They offer a glimpse into Indian life in the mid-20th century.

Tenali Raman: Many of you may have seen the TV series but the pleasure of reading about Tenali Raman, a legendary court jester who lived in the 16th century, is altogether a different experience. He was known for his wit and his ability to solve complex problems in clever ways. The stories about Tenali Raman are both entertaining and educational.

The Grandmother’s Tale and Selected Stories: This collection of stories by RK Narayan is full of magic, mystery, and folklore. The stories are set in the fictional town of Malgudi, and they offer a glimpse into the lives of ordinary people.

Stories from the Jataka Tales: These are a collection of stories that recount the previous lives of Buddha. The stories are full of moral lessons and are a great way to teach children about Buddhism and its teachings.

A Bagful of History: This book by Subhadra Sen Gupta is a collection of stories about Indian history. The stories are written in a simple and engaging style, and they are perfect for young readers.

Gita for Children: This book by Roopa Pai is a simplified version of the Bhagavad Gita, one of the most important Hindu scriptures. The book teaches children about the basic concepts of Hinduism in a way that is easy to understand.

How to inculcate reading habits in your child

1.       Set aside some time each day to read together. This could be before bed, after dinner, or at another time that works for your family.

2.       Choose books that your child is interested in. There are books on all sorts of topics, so you’re sure to find something that your child will enjoy reading.

3.       Make reading fun. Read with expression and make the story come to life. You can also ask your child questions about the story and encourage them to share their thoughts and opinions.

4.       Find a comfortable place where you and your child can relax and read together. You could have a reading nook in your child’s bedroom.

5.       Visit the library regularly. The library is a great place to find new books to read.