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Indian Culture

Exploring Indian culture, especially for those living outside India

Indian Culture, World Religions

The bold, bright colors of India leap right off the page in this fresh and funny picture book retelling (with a twist) of how Ganesha came to help write the epic poem of Hindu literature, the Mahabharata. Ganesha is just like any other kid, except that he has the head of an elephant and rides around on a magical mouse. And he loves sweets, especially the traditional dessert laddoo. But when Ganesha insists on biting into a super jumbo jawbreaker laddoo, his tusk breaks off! Ganesha is terribly upset, but with the help of the wise poet Vyasa, and his friend Mr. Mouse, he learns that what seems broken can actually be quite useful after all. With vibrant, graphic illustrations, expressive characters, and offbeat humor, this is a wonderfully inventive rendition of a classic tale.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 900 votes, reviews

Emily Haynes

Indian Culture

Shlokas and Mantras for Kids is a perfect means to introduce your child to the living and rich culture of India. This book has simple shlokas and mantras for children to chant and remember. The meanings of each shloka and mantra are also explained in an easy manner for the young minds to understand. This book is a means to let children take one small step towards learning about our thriving culture. This illustrated book for kids: Creates awareness about our culture and traditions Imparts knowledge and wisdom Introduces them to shlokas and mantras with their meanings Bring them closer to their roots Is an ideal and meaningful collectable for gifting
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 794 votes, reviews

Wonder House Books

Diversity, Indian Culture

Elliot lives in America, and Kailash lives in India. They are pen pals. By exchanging letters and pictures, they learn that they both love to climb trees, have pets, and go to school. Their worlds might look different, but they are actually similar. Same, same. But different! Through an inviting point-of-view and colorful, vivid illustrations, this story shows how two boys living oceans apart can be the best of friends.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 786 votes, reviews

Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw

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Indian Culture

It is Diwali and Peppa and her family are learning all about this very special celebration. Mummy and Daddy Pig are cooking a feast, and Granny and Grandpa Pig bring everyone special clothes to wear. Then it's time for the party to begin!
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 783 votes, reviews

Peppa Pig

Indian Culture

Pixar animator and Academy Award–nominated director Sanjay Patel (Sanjay’s Super Team) brings to life Hinduism’s most important gods and goddesses—and one sacred stone—in fun, full-color illustrations, each accompanied by a short, lively profile. The Little Book of Hindu Deities is chock-full of monsters, demons, noble warriors, and divine divas. Find out why Ganesha has an elephant’s head (his father cut his off!); why Kali, the goddess of time, is known as the “Black One” (she’s a bit goth); and what “Hare Krishna” really means. “Throw another ingredient in the American spirituality blender. Pop culture is veering into Hinduism.”—USA Today
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 751 votes, reviews

Sanjay Patel

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Indian Culture

Holi, Hai! Holi, Hai! It’s time to prepare for the Indian springtime Festival of Colors in this delightful Classic Board Book! It’s time for the Indian festival of Holi, a celebration of the start of spring, of new beginnings, and of good over evil. Friends, families, and neighbors wear white clothing and toss handfuls of brightly colored powders at one another until they’re all completely covered from head to toe! Young readers will love following the young siblings gathering flowers to make the colorful powders for the big day until—poof!—it’s time for the fun to begin.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 711 votes, reviews

Surishtha Sehgal

Vashti Harrison

Indian Culture

Learn all about the traditions of Diwali with this third book in the delightful board book series Celebrate the World, which highlights special occasions and holidays across the globe. Each autumn we gather with our friends and family and light our brightest lanterns. It’s time for Diwali, the festival of lights! In this lovely board book with illustrations from Archana Sreenivasan, readers learn that the five days of Diwali are a time to pray for a bountiful season, celebrate the special bonds between siblings, and rejoice in the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 688 votes, reviews

Hannah Eliot

Archana Sreenivasan

Indian Culture

Gandhi's peaceful revolution is the focus of this picture book, part of the inspiring New York Times bestselling biography series about heroes. As a young man in India, Gandhi saw firsthand how people were treated unfairly. Refusing to accept injustice, he came up with a brilliant way to fight back through quiet, peaceful protest. He took his methods with him from South Africa back to India, where he led a nonviolent revolution that freed his country from British rule. Through his calm, steady heroism, Gandhi changed everything for India and inspired civil rights movements all over the world, proving that the smallest of us can be the most powerful.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 590 votes, reviews

Brad Meltzer

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Indian Culture

Good Night India highlights the Himalayan Mountains, Golden Temple, Valley of Flowers National Park, Palace of Winds, Hawa, Mahal, Mehrangarh Fort, Goa, beaches, dolphins, lions in the Gir Forest, tigers in the Sundarbans, Darjeeling tea, blue train, elephants, and more. This charming board book invites young readers on an exciting and educational tour of one of the world's most interesting countries: India.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 581 votes, reviews

Nitya Khemka

Kavita Singh Kale

Growth Mindset, Indian Culture, Sports, True Story

The true story of Fauja Singh, who broke world records to become the first one hundred-year-old to run a marathon, shares valuable lessons on the source of his grit, determination to overcome obstacles, and commitment to positive representation of the Sikh community. Every step forward is a victory. Fauja Singh was born determined. He was also born with legs that wouldn't allow him to play cricket with his friends or carry him to school miles from his village in Punjab. But that didn't stop him. Working on his family's farm, Fauja grew stronger to meet his own full potential. He never stopped striving. At the age of 81, after a lifetime of making his body, mind, and heart stronger, Fauja decided to run his first marathon. He went on to break records all around the world and became the first person over 100 to complete the grueling long-distance race. With exuberant text by Simran Jeet Singh and exhilarating illustrations by Baljinder Kaur, the true story of Fauja Singh reminds us that it's both where we start and how we finish that make our journeys unforgettable.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 546 votes, reviews

Simran Jeet Singh

Baljinder Kaur

Food, Celebrity Authors, Indian Culture

Padma Lakshmi, bestselling author and host of Bravo's Top Chef and Hulu's Taste the Nation, and Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Juana Martinez-Neal team up in this celebration of food and family. “Some of my fondest memories from childhood are of cooking with the women in my family. It is the foundation for all I have spent my life working on.” –Padma Lakshmi Neela loves cooking with her amma and writing down the recipes in her notebook. It makes her feel closer to her paati who lives far away in India. On Saturdays, Neela and Amma go to the green market and today they are buying tomatoes to make Paati's famous sauce. But first, Neela needs to learn about all the different kinds of tomatoes they can pick from. And as Neela and Amma cook together, they find a way for Paati to share in both the love and the flavors of the day. Bestselling author and host of Bravo's Top Chef and Hulu's Taste the Nation Padma Lakshmi takes young readers on an intergenerational journey full of delicious flavors and fun food facts that celebrates a family's treasured recipes. And Caldecott Honor-winning illustrator Juana Martinez-Neal brings this circle of women to life with vivid detail and warmth. Tomatoes for Neela lovingly affirms how we can connect to other cultures, as well as to our own, through food.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 542 votes, reviews

Padma Lakshmi

Juana Martinez-Neal

Environment, Indian Culture

As a boy, Jadav Payeng was distressed by the destruction deforestation and erosion was causing on his island home in India's Brahmaputra River. So he began planting trees. What began as a small thicket of bamboo, grew over the years into 1,300 acre forest filled with native plants and animals. The Boy Who Grew a Forest tells the inspiring true story of Payeng--and reminds us all of the difference a single person with a big idea can make.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 340 votes, reviews

Sophia Gholz

Sophia Gholz

Indian Culture, Familiar Songs, Singable

From the mother-son duo behind the New York Times bestselling A Bucket of Blessings comes a zany picture book about a wild ride on a tuk tuk taxi in India! This picture book brings an international twist to the beloved nursery rhyme, The Wheels on the Bus, by bringing you aboard a busy three-wheeled taxi in India! Anything can happen as the tuk tuk rolls through town—from an elephant encounter to a tasty treat to a grand fireworks display. And in the midst of all the action, one thing’s for sure: passengers young and old love every minute of their exciting ride as the wheels of the tuk tuk go round and round!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 304 votes, reviews

Kabir Sehgal

Indian Leads, Siblings, Immigration Stories

Rubina has been invited to her first birthday party, and her mother, Ami, insists that she bring her little sister along. Rubina is mortified, but she can't convince Ami that you just don't bring your younger sister to your friend's party. So both girls go, and not only does Sana demand to win every game, but after the party she steals Rubina's prized party favor, a red lollipop. What's a fed-up big sister to do? Rukhsana Khan's clever story and Sophie Blackall's irresistible illustrations make for a powerful combination in this fresh and surprising picture book.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 296 votes, reviews

Rukhsana Khan

Sophie Blackall

Indian Culture, World Holidays

India is a country of myriad festivals! Not a month goes by in which we don't have something to celebrate. This book invites you to rejoice in India's rich culture through the simple stories of two young twins, Natasha and Nikhil, as they experience an entire year of festivals and celebrations - starting with Lohri in January and ending with Christmas in December! The detailed descriptions and wealth of detail about each festival that Natasha and Nikhil record in their blog and journal will make this a book to treasure and return to every time a festival comes by. So come celebrate with us!
average rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on 269 votes, reviews

Rachna Chhabria

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Indian Culture

Celebrate Diwali with this delightful baby board book teaching little ones all about the popular festival of light. Bold, brightly colored pictures, and short and snappy text is a fantastic way to discover Diwali together in this delightful book! From the shining diya lamps that gave the festival its name, to colorful Rangoli sand decorations and sweet treats, Baby’s First Diwali features all the familiar favourites associated with India’s biggest and brightest holiday. This board book is perfect for children aged 2-4 years old, to develop early learning skills with simple and vibrant pictures and sentences that promote language skills. The small, padded format of this book is perfect for little hands to hold, and babies and toddlers will enjoy turning the pages by themselves, helping with early reading development and fine motor skills. This charming board book features: - Bright images that are exciting for little ones to focus on - A small, sturdy, and padded design making it easy for babies to hold by themselves - A gentle introduction to the festival of Divali, with clear text for little ones to understand - A simple and clear design that’s easy for little ones to follow along - Learn all about the amazing festival of light with your little one! Baby’s First Diwali perfectly captures the joy of this special celebration and is an ideal preschool learning introduction to the traditions of the holiday. Adults and toddlers can enjoy reading this book on Diwali together and learn about India’s brightest festival.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 258 votes, reviews

DK

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Being Yourself, Indian Culture

Meet Anjali! She's the spunky star of this picture book with a timeless message about appreciating what makes us special and honoring our different identities. Anjali and her friends are excited to buy matching personalized license plates for their bikes--but Anjali can't find a plate with her name. She is often teased about her "different" name, and this is the last straw. Anjali is so upset that she demands her parents let her pick a new name! When they refuse, Anjali decides to take a closer look at who she is--beyond her name--and why being different means being marvelous. Actress and activist Sheetal Sheth has penned a deeply personal picture book about the experience of feeling othered and the journey toward embracing yourself.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 214 votes, reviews

Sheetal Sheth

Jessica Blank

Indian Culture, World Holidays

"Amme Tell Me" is a charming and informative series of children's books that introduces the major Hindu festivals and figures to young readers, and are perfect for families wanting to share stories of Hinduism with their children or for educators looking for resource on the Hindu culture for their students. Written in rhyme with vivid, captivating illustrations, this series brings Hindu mythology to its readers in a fun and non-preachy way. The Series has ten books on the festivals of Holi, Diwali, and on the Hindu gods Krishna, Hanuman and Ganesha.
average rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on 190 votes, reviews

Bhakti Mathur

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Indian Culture

This colorfully illustrated multicultural children's book presents Indian fairy tales and other folk stories that the whole family will enjoy! Indian Children's Favorite Stories is a charming selection of eight Indian tales that provide an insight into traditional Indian culture. They make perfect new additions for story time or bedtime reading. Retold for an international audience, the beautifully illustrated stories will give children of all ages a glimpse into the fables and folklore of India, including tales of how Lord Krishna escapes the evil Kamsa's repeated attempts to kill him, and how the elephant keeper's daughter, Rani, humbles an unwise and unjust king by emptying his storehouses of rice. Featured Indian stories include: The Story of Rama, the ancient Indian tale of a prince's exile and return to his homeland Sukhu and Dukhu, two sisters--one kind, one selfish--and their different fates Munna and the Grain of Rice, how a good and clever girl saves her people from hunger And five more wonderful tales to delight story lovers everywhere. A glossary is also included, so that everyone can understand and appreciate the Indian words scattered throughout the stories. The Children's Favorite Stories series was created to share the folktales and legends most beloved by children in the East with young readers of all backgrounds in the West. Other multicultural children's books in this series include: Asian Children's Favorite Stories, Indonesian Children's Favorite Stories, Japanese Children's Favorite Stories, Singapore Children's Favorite Stories, Filipino Children's Favorite Stories, Favorite Children's Stories from China & Tibet, Chinese Children's Favorite Stories, Korean Children's Favorite Stories, Balinese Children's Favorite Stories, and Vietnamese Children's Favorite Stories.
average rating is 4.5 out of 5, based on 186 votes, reviews

Rosemarie Somaiah

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B. Ranjan Somaiah

Indian Culture

In a warm, festive story that introduces readers to the Hindu holiday of Diwali, three anthropomorphic child monkeys—Suno, Dekho, and Jaano—receive a wrapped gift from Suno’s dadima (grandmother) on the eve of the celebration. The monkeys take turns guessing what might be inside that package (sparklers, bangles), discovering instead that the present holds a series of smaller wrapped gifts, each with its own riddle (“I am round and shiny, so keep me in a safe place”).
average rating is 4.5 out of 5, based on 139 votes, reviews

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Indian Culture, Food

10 Gulab Jamuns, is a sweet multicultural picture book for children that instill in them a love for math and a knowledge of diversity and new cultures. Join two adorable brothers in a fun-filled adventure and discover a tasty sweet from India! Idu (Ee-doo) and Adu (Aa-doo) are very excited. Guests are coming over for dinner and their Mamma has already cooked a lot. Next, she is cooking Gulab Jamuns, but Idu and Adu don t know what Gulab Jamuns are. Before long, they discover just how good these wonderful golden, sugary syrup-soaked balls are and how quickly they melt in their mouths. But Mamma has only made 10 Gulab Jamuns. Will they last until their guests come? This light-hearted, humorous story will warm your heart and tantalize your tastebuds. It also includes some basic lessons in counting and an easy recipe to make those delicious Gulab Jamuns yourself. Read this book aloud and enjoy a fun activity with your little ones.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 137 votes, reviews

Sandhya Acharya

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Indian Culture

My First Book of Hindi Words is a beautifully illustrated book that introduces young children to Hindi language and Indian culture through everyday words. Organized as an ABC rhyming book, My First Book of Hindi Words incorporates common Hindi words into charming English-language rhymes, beginning with: "A is for Akash. A sky so blue where little birds fly and big planes, too," and on through "Z is for Zukhaam. Achoo! I sneeze. I must have a cold. Mama, hug me please!" Winsome, full-color pictures illustrate each word and allow even very young readers to make their first foray into India's official language. A helpful glossary at the end makes it easy for readers—including parents and teachers—to review what they've learned! With the help of this book, we hope more children (and adults) will soon be a part of the 300 million people worldwide that speak Hindi!
average rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on 119 votes, reviews

Rina Singh

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Farida Zaman

Indian Culture, World Holidays

"Amme Tell Me" is a charming and informative series of children's books that introduces the major Hindu festivals and figures to young readers, and are perfect for families wanting to share stories of Hinduism with their children or for educators looking for resource on the Hindu culture for their students. Written in rhyme with vivid, captivating illustrations, this series brings Hindu mythology to its readers in a fun and non-preachy way. The Series has ten books on the festivals of Holi, Diwali, and on the Hindu gods Krishna, Hanuman and Ganesha.
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 113 votes, reviews

Bhakti Mathur

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Folktales, Indian Culture

Step back into ancient India as Marcia Williams brings her inviting comic-book style to eight animal folktales that continue to enchant children today. Drawing from three books of best-loved Indian folktales— the Hitopadesha, the Jatakas,and the Panchatantra —this graphic storybook collection, alive with kidfriendly illustrations, is infused with humor and warmth.
average rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on 108 votes, reviews

Marcia Williams

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Strong Female Leads, African American Leads, Indian Culture

In this book from the highly acclaimed Little People, BIG DREAMS series, discover the incredible life of Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black person, and first South Asian American to be elected vice president of the USA. Little Kamala used to accompany her parents to civil rights marches in California, strapped into her stroller so she wouldn’t get lost. From an early age, she dreamed of becoming a lawyer to help people in need. In school, Kamala felt like she could do anything and everything. She earned a law degree to make sure the most vulnerable were protected by justice. Kamala’s life was full of firsts, including becoming the first woman, Black woman, and South Asian American to be elected vice president. As Kamala stated to little girls everywhere in her speech—she may be the first but she won't be the last. This powerful book features stylish and quirky illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the politician’s life. Little People, BIG DREAMS is a best-selling series of books and educational games that explore the lives of outstanding people, from designers and artists to scientists and activists. All of them achieved incredible things, yet each began life as a child with a dream. This empowering series offers inspiring messages to children of all ages, in a range of formats. The board books are told in simple sentences, perfect for reading aloud to babies and toddlers. The hardcover versions present expanded stories for beginning readers. Boxed gift sets allow you to collect a selection of the books by theme. Paper dolls, learning cards, matching games, and other fun learning tools provide even more ways to make the lives of these role models accessible to children. Inspire the next generation of outstanding people who will change the world with Little People, BIG DREAMS!
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 96 votes, reviews

Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

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World Religions, Indian Culture

My First Sikh by Parveen Kaur Dhillon is a two-in-one children's book about young Singhs and Kaurs of the Sikh faith. This two-in-one board book includes My First Sikh Boy Book and My First Sikh Girl Book, two wonderful children's books about young Singhs and Kaurs of the Sikh faith. These books are designed for parents of toddlers and early reading young children to gain awareness of the Sikh identity and values. They are richly illustrated to show images of young Sikhs living with Sikh ideals. These books are perfect for families with young Sikh children or for giving to non-Sikhs who want to gain a better understanding of basic Sikh ideals. They are also good to share in schools and libraries to foster greater awareness in communities where young Sikhs are growing.
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 95 votes, reviews

Parveen Kaur Dhillon

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Indian Culture

Bring your baby closer to their culture with “My First Hindi Words!” Increase your child's Hindi vocabulary with this fun and colorful book by "Hindi By Reena.” This book will introduce kids to everyday Hindi words through bright and realistic illustrations. With a focus on the learning Hindi words — the book does not confuse early learners with the Devanagari script. Written by Hindi By Reena — The world’s first comprehensive Hindi learning company -- this book was created after years of research with kids and babies from around the world.WHY LEARN HINDI?Hindi is India’s most-spoken national language. The total number of Hindi speakers are well over a half a billion. Whether you are Gujarati, Punjabi or Bengali — most indians can speak Hindi fluently as a second language. Hindi is so popular in India, that even all the Bollywood movies are in Hindi!
average rating is 4.3 out of 5, based on 86 votes, reviews

Reena Bhansali

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Indian Culture

Introduce Indian classical music: This interactive sound book is a playful way to introduce Indian culture. Develop fine motor, cognitive and literacy skills: Pushing the interactive buttons help toddlers and babies develop fine motor skills while listening to music and the corresponding poems builds cognitive and early literacy skills. Six unique and delightful sounds: Baby Sangeet has six instrumental music pieces, from Sitar, Tabla, Veena, Bansuri, Harmonium, and Mridangam. The little fingers won’t stop playing this book: All sounds were recorded in actual studios. The crisp and endearing quality of sound would make the child play the music over and over again. Colorful and vibrant illustrations: The book has some adorable animals attired in outfits that are representative of Indian culture The book has six colorful spreads with different animals with six different instruments. The high sound quality, superb illustrations, and short and simple poems bring every picture to life. The pages in the book have rounded edges, and therefore it is just right for the little hands that are learning to turn the pages. The buttons are very easy to play with, and you can turn off the battery on the back cover. The long lasting batteries are replaceable. It uses AG10/LR1130 batteries. This charming book is an excellent gift for a child’s two year birthday.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 72 votes, reviews

Aparna Pandey

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Raquel Lopez

Indian Culture, Gratitude, Folktales

This timeless story from India is about a poor boy's dream of having his own drum. His mother is very poor and cannot afford to buy her son the one thing in the world that he really wants. The poor boy's dream takes him on one of the most unlikely journeys and ultimately leads to attaining his dream.
average rating is 4.4 out of 5, based on 65 votes, reviews

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Indian Culture

Let's Celebrate being Indian-American! Follow along as Suri takes you through a year of holidays, festivals, and celebrations with her family and best friend, Veer. Suri is a young girl who is American with Indian descent. Suri's pride in her roots and home show us the beauty and joy that multiculturalism brings to the world! Reading books that represent different beliefs, cultures, and skin colors help us all to learn, embrace, and celebrate differences. This book highlights some of the best parts of a culture, which are the holidays and festivals!
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 64 votes, reviews

Sharan Chahal-Jaswal

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Indian Culture, Food

The 7th book in Tricycle's World Snacks series introduces toddlers to Indian snack foods known as chaat. Scrumptious treats like bhel puri (rice puff salad), tandoori chicken, and sweet coconut cham-cham, look good enough to eat in Wilson Sanger's gorgeous collage art, while her trademark bouncy text will please little ears.
average rating is 4.6 out of 5, based on 64 votes, reviews

Amy Wilson Sanger

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Food, Indian Culture, Jewish Culture

In this sweet and humorous picture book, Queen of the Hanukkah Dosas, a multi-cultural family (Mom's Indian; Dad's Jewish) celebrate Hanukkah while incorporating traditional Indian food. Instead of latkes, this family celebrates Hanukkah with tasty Indian dosas. To her brother's chagrin, little Sadie won't stop climbing on everything both at home and at the Indian grocery store, even while preparing the dosas. As the family puts the finishing touches on their holiday preparations, they accidentally get locked out of the house. Sadie and her climbing skills just may be exactly what is needed to save the day.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 44 votes, reviews

Pamela Ehrenberg

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Anjan Sarkar

Indian Culture, Grandparents

An Indian grandmother and her American granddaughter explore culture, imagination, and individuality through a collection of saris. Every day, Rupa's grandmother wears a beautiful Indian sari. Each is brightly colored and very pretty. "Don't you ever want to wear a gray skirt and red blouse with round buttons like Mommy or a green dress like me?" Rupa asks. But Dadima prefers to wear her traditional saris. Dadima shares all the wonderful things that saris can do—from becoming an umbrella in a rainstorm to providing a deep pouch to carry seashells. Soon Rupa's own imagination is sparked as she envisions saris protecting her in the scary Gir Jungle, bandaging up an injured knee, and holding a special secret for her and Dadima to share. Kashmira Sheth provides a warm, unique peek into Indian culture in this sensitive portrait of a grandmother and her American granddaughter. Hindi words defined and sprinkled throughout the text further add to the story's authenticity. Yoshiko Jaeggi's sweeping, colorful, and fanciful watercolor illustrations capture the extraordinary bond of love that unites families across generations and cultures. A note from the author and instructions for wrapping a sari are included.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 40 votes, reviews

Kashmira Sheth

Yoshiko Jaeggi

Indian Culture

"My First 101 Gujarati Words" is a picture board book 8 inches by 8 inches with the intent of teaching Gujarati to your little ones! The book contains some of the most commonly used words that every child starting to learn Gujarati should know along with bright colorful images to help your child associate the words with pictures. Words and images include pages for Colors, Numbers, Shapes, Days of the Week, Animals, Fruit, Vegetables, Body Parts, Action Words, Descriptive Words, Family, and Indian Holidays! As a first generation American born Indian with children of my own, I felt it extremely important for my kids to learn and be able to interact in Gujarati. The language is part of their heritage and I am hoping that it will help jump start further interest into our rich Indian culture. The book is also intended to help facilitate hours of interaction and bonding with your child. Makes for a great newborn gift, birthday gift, holiday gift, or everyday purchase! Happy READING! Special Thanks to Amy Mughrabi, Ankit Raval, Anushree Trivedi, and Vandita Patel for helping make this book a reality.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 35 votes, reviews

Rajni Patel

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Indian Culture, Size Concepts

“Am I small?” - Tamia is not sure and keeps asking various animals that she meets on her journey. Eventually she finds the surprising answer...
average rating is 4.1 out of 5, based on 35 votes, reviews

Philipp Winterberg

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Nadja Wichmann

World Holidays, Indian Culture

Join Ajeet and Rakha as they explore their favorite holiday.Lohri: The Bonfire Festival, is a fun-filled and colorful introduction to the winter harvest festival of Punjab, India. Children of all ages will enjoy the rhymes in both English and Punjabi as they learn more about the culture and traditions that have been celebrated this way since the fifteenth century. The Punjabi within these pages is a fun way to teach kids to read the Gurmukhi script. A Romanized Punjabi transliteration of all pages is at the end of the book to aid in pronunciation. A fun, multi-lingual rhyming book for children of all ages!
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 29 votes, reviews

Parveen Kaur Dhillon

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Indian Culture

Ek Navo Divas (A New Day) is the Gujarati-English bilingual edition of the AWARD WINNING Hindi-English book Ek Naya Din. Ek Navo Divas is a book about a fun-filled day full of new possibilities that will take you and your little one on a learning adventure. Children will learn about colors, numbers, opposites in an exciting way. A Bilingual/Multilingual book with phonetic and English translation will help young children develop basic conversational skills in both Gujarati and English. This book will help learners of all ages grasp basic Gujarati words used in everyday conversations. Get this book today to incorporate conversational Gujarati into your loved one's life! Visit the website www.apniheritage.com for more details and information about other bilingual products.
average rating is 4.9 out of 5, based on 28 votes, reviews

Anuja Mohla

Noor Alshalabi

Alphabet, Indian Culture

From the quiet grandeur of the Himalaya Mountains to the urban city of Calcutta, T is for Taj Mahal: An India Alphabet showcases India's exotic treasures. Visit the haunting Taj Mahal, a tribute from an emperor to his dead wife. Traverse the bustling streets of Mumbai, the second most populated city in the world. Sample a traditional meal fragrant with garam masala spices, or attend a cricket match where some games have lasted up to five days! Varsha Bajaj was born in Mumbai, India. Her book, How Many Kisses Do You Want Tonight?, was named to the 2005 Texas Library Association 2X2 Reading List. Varsha lives in Houston, Texas. Robert Crawford's paintings have appeared on the cover of major magazines such as The Atlantic and U.S. News and World Report, as well as books. He also illustrated Sleeping Bear Press's The Legend of the Old Man of the Mountain. Robert lives in Woodbury, Connecticut.
average rating is 4.3 out of 5, based on 21 votes, reviews

Varsha Bajaj

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Robert Crawford

Indian Culture

Learn Punjabi animals with Bindi Baby by Gnaana. High-style graphics blend modern silhouettes with Indian design elements. The bold colors and rich patterns are designed to attract and delight – encouraging fun and easy learning. Appropriate for babies, toddlers and beginning readers of Punjabi script. Also available in other Indian languages.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 18 votes, reviews

Aruna K. Hatti

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Gnaana

Indian Culture, Strong Female Leads

This primer introduces our readers to Hindu gods. Padmini is wise like Ganesha, she is generous like Lakshmi, and energetic like Parvati. Through Padmini, we will meet these gods and learn that power has many forms.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 16 votes, reviews

Amy Maranville

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Indian Culture, Strong Female Leads

Celebrate Raksha Bandhan in a totally new way! Little Raashi is ready to update this popular South Asian festival with her idea that both boys and girls get to trade rakhi bracelets. Raksha Bandhan is Raashi’s favorite festival! Every year, her family comes together to dance, eat, and celebrate! Most importantly, siblings give out rakhis—beautiful handmade bracelets meant to provide protection in all of their advetures. But rakhis are traditionally only given to boys! Raashi doesn’t like that. . . . Why don’t girls receive rakhis too? Why do some people think that only boys go out into the world? Now it's up to Raashi to inspire the change she imagines. Sheetal Sheth, award-winning actress and author of the Anjali series, delivers another empowering story of a young girl bold enough to start her own traditions and blaze a trail toward inclusivity.
average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 13 votes, reviews

Sheetal Sheth

Lucia Soto

Indian Culture

Comes in a variety of Indian languages. Ek...Be...Tran...Learn to count in Gujarati with Bindi Baby by Gnaana! From 0 to the Number 10, kids will delight in counting these everyday outdoor-inspired objects - and learn about forming and using plurals. Numbers 11-20 are also included at the end of the book. Appropriate for babies, toddlers and beginning readers of Gujarati script. *Gujarati transliteration included to help with pronunciation. *Includes chart of Gujarati numbers 0-20. *Includes a lesson on Aryabhata - one of the greatest mathematicians and astronomers in the history of India - and his discovery of the "number 0."
average rating is 4.1 out of 5, based on 10 votes, reviews

Aruna K. Hatti

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Indian Culture, Food

Spicy or tangy, savory or sweet—let’s meet some Indian foods from A to Z! Warning: this book might make you very hungry! Fry, simmer, sauté, and create. I’ll try them all. I can’t wait! You can’t fit India on a plate! Kids love learning about food, they need to learn their ABC's, and this mouth-watering alphabet book covers both in the most delicious way! From spicy achaar to sweet zafrani pulao, flip through food from every corner of India, for all kinds of occasions. Author/illustrator Archana Sreenivasan brings each dish to life with playful rhyming text and bright, engaging illustrations.
average rating is 4.8 out of 5, based on 6 votes, reviews

Archana Sreenivasan

Indian Culture

Tour the diverse regions of an incredible country in a vivid, joyful, and visually stunning introduction to the people, places, flora, and fauna of India. Watch elephants bathing from a houseboat in Kerala, marvel at ancient cave paintings in Bhimbetka, wander Delhi’s bustling streets, and ride a train through the snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas. In spread after colorful spread, India’s breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and cultural splendor leap to life on the page, framed by the story of a little girl named Thara and her grandmother. In a carved wooden trunk, Nanijee keeps mementos collected from all over India, each with a story to tell. Readers can follow along page by page with Thara or dip in at any point to discover something new about India’s many and varied regions—from vibrant religious festivals, food, and crafts to sports and wildlife to Bollywood and a hidden sculpture garden filled with life-size figures. A warm, welcoming tone and exquisitely patterned endpapers help make this an intimate keepsake to pore over and treasure. A companion book to the award-winning Africa, Amazing Africa by Atinuke and Mouni Feddag, this is narrative nonfiction at its finest.
average rating is 4.7 out of 5, based on 4 votes, reviews

Jasbinder Bilan

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Nina Chakrabarti

Indian Culture, Grandparents

Newbery Honoree Rajani LaRocca, author of I’ll Go and Come Back, turns her focus to a careful, deliberate grandfather and his impatient grandson in a cozy family story featuring a recipe for spiced chai. Aarav loves his grandfather very much, but they’re as different as water and molasses. Where Aarav runs and races, Thatha likes to saunter and stroll. Every day at five o’clock, Thatha makes masala chai for the family, and no matter how much Aarav urges him to hurry, Thatha insists on taking his time. “Masala chai cannot be rushed,” says Thatha. “It must be made carefully.” One day, when Thatha sprains his ankle and must rest on the couch, Aarav eagerly decides he’d like to make the chai himself—after all, what would make his grandfather feel better than a cup of warm, spiced sweetness? But no matter how hard Aarav tries, his rushing causes him to miss some crucial step. Will Aarav be able to slow down and get the recipe right? With charming illustrations by Neha Rawat that are as enticing as the aroma of spiced tea, author Rajani LaRocca invites readers in for a visit with Aarav and his family—and shares her favorite masala chai recipe at the end.
average rating is 5 out of 5, based on 1 votes, reviews

Rajani LaRocca

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Neha Rawat

Indian Culture

meaningful additions

Children learn and hear more than we think.  Books provide context for new and potentially confusing topics, and give caregivers a way to approach complex topics.

Balanced Rocks
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