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Children’s Books with South Asian Voices
As parents raising children outside of South Asia, many of us often find ourselves searching for stories that reflect our traditions, our festivals, and our names.
Whether you’re introducing your toddler to the joy of Diwali, helping your kindergartener navigate questions about identity, or offering your tween a story that makes them feel seen, there’s something in this list for every reader.
Why We Need More South Asian Stories on Our Children’s Bookshelves
Growing up, many of us were lucky to be surrounded by the stories of Ramayana, Panchatantra, and Amar Chitra Katha.
Our grandparents told us tales of Tenali Raman’s wit over bedtime milk, and we flipped through crinkly pages of comics featuring mythological heroes and freedom fighters while munching on Parle-G biscuits.
But somewhere along the way—when we moved continents, raised our children in different cultures, and tried to preserve pieces of our identity—those familiar characters and cultural nuances faded from the bookshelf.
Today, when our kids browse through library stacks or scroll through book recommendations online, how often do they see a character who looks like them?
A child named Aarav who celebrates Diwali, or a girl like Zainab who wears bangles to school and feels proud?
Stories are powerful mirrors—and when children don’t see themselves reflected in the books they read, it subtly sends the message that their stories, their families, and their traditions don’t matter as much.
As parents raising South Asian kids abroad—whether in the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, or anywhere in the diaspora—we’re constantly trying to strike a delicate balance.
We want our children to grow up confident and rooted, celebrating who they are, without feeling like they have to fit into a mold to belong.
And books can be one of the simplest and most joyful tools to help with that.
That’s why this blog post is close to my heart.
Filling the Bookshelf Gap
The good news is: The publishing world is finally waking up.
Over the past few years, we’ve seen a slow but steady rise in books that center South Asian voices—books written by authors of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, Nepali, or Sri Lankan origin, and stories featuring protagonists with names like Priya, Yusuf, or Anjali.
From picture books about wearing bindis and kurtas to middle-grade adventures that weave in mythology and migration, there’s now a growing collection to explore.
But for many of us parents, the real challenge is finding these gems in the first place.
I know this from experience. Every time I travel to India, I pick up books from bookstores, ask for recommendations in parenting groups, or scroll through Indian publishers online.
Even then, I often wonder: “Will my kids relate to this story? Is it too culturally specific or not specific enough? Will they feel connected—or confused?”
So, after years of collecting and reading with my children, I decided to compile a list for other parents like me—a thoughtful, curated list of children’s books that offer beautiful South Asian representation.
It’s not just about checking off boxes of representation, either.
These are genuinely good books—well-written, engaging, funny, emotional, and often deeply meaningful.
Books your children will want to read again and again—not because they should, but because they want to.
I’ve included short descriptions, age recommendations, and links wherever possible.
And if you’re a busy parent (aren’t we all?), I’ve also created a printable PDF list that you can save or print for your next bookstore visit or library run. Just scroll to the end or drop a comment saying “books” and I’ll send it your way!
PICTURE BOOKS
The Katha Chest by Radhiah Chowdhury, illustrated by Lavanya Naidu
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
Where Three Oceans Meet by Rajani Larocca, illustrated by Archana Sreenivasan
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
This picture book celebrates the beauty of India and the enduring love of family. Three generations of women share a trip and meet symbolically where three oceans meet—a beautiful story inspired by a real road trip.
A Dupatta Is … by Marzieh Abbas, illustrated by Anu Chouhan
Recommended Age – 3-6 years
The book beautifully represents different facets of a Dupatta, which is a defining part of South Asian culture. The text beautifully captures how a dupatta is more than a piece of cloth to kids and adults alike. Cute illustrations of kids using a dupatta for play and so much more.
Hair Twins by Raakhee Mirchandani, illustrated by Holly Hatam
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
A Sikh father and daughter proudly celebrate and share a family tradition in this charming story. Every morning, Dad combs through his daughters’ hair in a new style. But her favorite style is when he combs her hair in a tight bun on the top of her head, just like the joora he wears every day under his turban. They call this their hair twin look!
Henna Is … by Marzieh Abbas, illustrated by Anu Chouhan
Recommended Age – 3-6 years
This one introduces Henna/Mehndi and how it has been a tradition in cultures around the world for thousands of years. A nice way to learn how Henna is made, and it carries much more meaning beyond being a temporary tattoo. The book sparks conversations about art, weddings, colors, and festivals.
Hana’s Hundreds of Hijabs by Razeena Omar Gutta, illustrated by Manal Mirza
Recommended Age – 4-9 years
Wheels on the Tuk Tuk by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Jess Golden
Recommended Age – 1-5 years
In this twist to the beloved nursery rhyme, “The Wheels on the Bus,” anything can happen as the tuk tuk rolls through town—from an elephant encounter to a tasty treat to a grand fireworks display. Also available as a Board Book.
Little Sid: The Tiny Prince Who Became Buddha by Ian Lendler, illustrated by Xanthe Bouma
Recommended Age – 4-6 years
The book introduces Siddharta and Buddhism to curious readers! It offers a heartwarming account of the Buddha’s childhood. A spoiled young prince, Siddhartha, got everything he ever asked for, until he asked for what couldn’t be given?happiness.
Bilal Cooks Daal by Aisha Saeed, illustrated by Anoosha Syed
Recommended Age: 3–7 years
Themes: Patience, Community, Sharing, Cultural traditions, Family
Six-year-old Bilal eagerly helps his dad prepare their favorite slow-cooked lentil dish, daal, while inviting his friends to share in the experience.
The Light Within You by Namita Moolani Mehra, illustrated by Kamala Nair
Recommended Age: 4-8 years
Diya is travelling from the U.S. to India to celebrate Diwali with her beloved Nani. From shopping in the bustling bazaar to lighting diyas together, Diya reconnects with her roots and finds joy in traditions she’s missed.
Holi Hai by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Darshika Varma
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
Themes – Celebrating Culture, Encouraging Emotional Growth
Holi Hai introduces young readers to the vibrant festival of Holi through the story of Gauri, a little girl who learns an important lesson about emotions, love, and forgiveness. When things don’t go her way, Gauri’s frustration threatens to ruin the celebration—but with a little help, she discovers the true spirit of Holi.
Namaste is a greeting by Suma Subramaniam, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
Themes – Kindness, Mindfulness, Compassion, Community, Emotional Awareness
This gentle and beautifully illustrated picture book explores the many meanings of the word namaste through the eyes of a little girl in a busy Indian city. As she goes about her day with her mother, we see how namaste can be a smile, a kind gesture, or a quiet moment.
The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh by Supriya Kelkar, illustrated by Alea Marley
Recommended Age – 3-7 years
Themes – Emotional Growth, Identity, Friendship, Cultural Pride, Experience of Moving to a new place
A warm and relatable story about a young Sikh boy who expresses his feelings through the colors of his patkas (head coverings). When his family moves to a new city, Harpreet feels lonely and shy at his new school. But as he begins to make friends, his colors—and his confidence—shine again.
King for a Day by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Christiane Krömer
Recommended Age: 6–9 years
Themes: Determination, Kindness, Overcoming Challenges, Disability Representation, Cultural Celebration
The book tells the spirited story of Malik, a Pakistani boy who uses a wheelchair and dreams of winning the kite-flying festival of Basant. Malik’s determination shines as he skillfully flies his special kite, Falcon, defeating the neighborhood bully and earning his rightful place as the “King” of the festival.
Binny’s Diwali by Thrity Umrigar, illustrated by Nidhi Chanani
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Cultural Pride, Public Speaking, Diwali Traditions, Confidence, School Community
A young girl prepares to share her favorite holiday with her class—but nerves get the best of her at first. As she takes a deep breath and begins to speak, Binny finds her voice through the vibrant memories of fireworks, sweets, and glowing diyas. Her joy becomes contagious as her classmates are drawn into the colors, tastes, and wonder of Diwali.
I’ll Go and Come Back by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Sara Palacios
Recommended Age – 3-7 years
Themes – Family, Cross-Cultural Connection, Intergenerational Love, Immigrant Experience
Jyoti, a young girl, visits her grandmother in India and learns that love can be shared even without speaking the same language. At first, everything feels unfamiliar—but through small moments like sharing food, playing, and reading together, Jyoti and her Sita Pati form a deep bond.
Bracelets for Bina’s Brothers (Storytelling Math), written by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat
Recommended Age – 3-6 years
For Raksha Bandhan, Bina is determined to make beaded bracelets for her brothers all by herself. She finds out which colors her brothers like and dislike and sets to work. Working with her every-other-one beading pattern causes Bina to discover something new about patterns and her brothers.
Raksha Bandhan Books: Celebrating the Sibling Bond through Stories
Archie Celebrates Diwali by Mitali Banerjee Ruths, illustrated by Parwinder Singh
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Diwali traditions, resilience, cultural pride, friendship, celebration
The story of a young girl excited to share her favorite holiday with her school friends at her family’s annual Diwali party. Archie helps prepare decorations and food, looking forward to a perfect evening—until an unexpected thunderstorm knocks out the power and soaks the lights. Just when things seem ruined, Archie learns that the true spirit of Diwali—light, joy, and togetherness—shines brightest from within.
Same Same But Different by Jenny Sue Kostecki-Shaw
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Friendship, Diversity, Global Connection, Cultural Similarities
Elliot in America and Kailash in India become pen pals through a classroom activity. As they exchange letters and drawings, they discover that while their worlds look very different—buses vs. rickshaws, alphabets vs. scripts—they also have so much in common.
Hot Roti for Dada-ji by Farhana Zia, illustrated by Ken Min
Recommended Age – 5-10 years
A warm, lively celebration of family, food, and storytelling that brings Indian culture deliciously to life. Aneel’s adventurous grandfather, Dada-ji, shares tales of his youthful strength—powered by hot, fluffy rotis and spicy mango pickle. It’s a perfect read for kids curious about Indian food and the special bonds between grandparents and grandchildren. Hunh-ji! Yes, sir!
Fatima’s Great Outdoors by Ambreen Tariq
Recommended Age – 4-8 years
Themes – Family Bonding, Resilience, the Immigrant Experience, Love for the Outdoors
The story is about a young girl and her immigrant family experiencing their first camping trip in the Midwest. From pitching tents and building fires to facing a (not-so-scary) spider, Fatima discovers confidence and happiness in nature.
Masala Chai: Fast and Slow by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Neha Rawat
Recommended Age – 3-7 years
Themes – Family Love, Tradition, Mindfulness, Cultural Heritage
This warm and delightful story beautifully captures the special bond between Aarav and his grandfather, Thatha, who have very different ways of moving through the world. As Aarav learns the art of making masala chai, he discovers the value of patience and slowing down.
American Desi by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Supriya Kelkar
Recommended Age – 3-8 years
Themes – Cultural Identity, Belonging, Self-Acceptance, Embracing Diversity
A beautiful and poetic story that celebrates the experience of growing up South Asian in the United States. Through joyful rhymes and vibrant artwork inspired by both Indian and American fabrics, it explores the feelings of belonging, identity, and pride in being bicultural.
Big Red Lollipop by Rukhsana Khan, illustrated by Sophie Blackall
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Sibling Relationships, Cultural Misunderstandings, Forgiveness, Family Dynamics
Rubina is thrilled to receive her first-ever birthday party invitation—but her excitement quickly turns to dread when her mother insists she bring along her younger sister, Sana. At the party, Sana’s behavior embarrasses Rubina and even costs her a cherished red lollipop. Rubina’s frustration simmers, but as time passes and roles reverse, she makes an unexpected choice that shows compassion and maturity.
Beautifully Me by Nabela Noor, illustrated by Nabi H. Ali
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Body positivity, Self-love, Family, Cultural Identity
Zubi, a bright and bubbly Bangladeshi girl, is all set for her first day of school. But her excitement dims when she notices her mom criticizing her own body in the mirror. As Zubi hears more negative comments from family and others throughout the day, she begins to question her appearance. A heartfelt dinnertime meltdown opens everyone’s eyes—reminding them (and us) that words matter, and beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all.
Leila in Saffron by Rukhsanna Guidroz, illustrated by Dinara Mirtalipova
Recommended Age: 4–8 years
Themes: Self-love, Cultural Identity, Family, Confidence, Sensory Exploration
Leila feels unsure of herself as she gets ready for her weekly family dinner at her Nani’s house. But when her grandmother lovingly compliments her saffron scarf, Leila begins to notice small, beautiful parts of herself reflected in the colors, smells, and textures around her.
Picture Books About India – The Ultimate List
Summer Reading List – Children’s Must-Read Books On India and Indian Culture & History
EARLY CHAPTER BOOKS
Meet Yasmin! by Saadia Faruqi, illustrated by Hatem Aly
Recommended Age – 4-8 years)
Yasmin is a spirited second-grader on the lookout for solutions to life’s little problems. Inspired by her surroundings and her big imagination, she boldly faces challenges. The book covers themes of family, creativity, and problem-solving. Yasmin and her multi-generational Pakistani American family will inspire readers.
Yasmin is a series with 29 books. See all books in the Series here.
Nina Soni: Former Best Friend by Kashmira Sheth, illustrated by Jenn Kocsmiersky
Recommended Age – 7-10 years
Nina Soni is a lovable 9-year-old Indian American girl with big plans, surrounded by family and friends. Nina Soni makes entertaining efforts to manage her life with lists, definitions, and real-life math problems as she learns about friendship and responsibility.
There are word pronunciation pull-out boxes throughout the book for young readers. The book teaches about Indian culture in a fun and relatable way—also, a great pick for STEAM enthusiasts.
First book of a 4-book series. See all books in the Series here.
It’s Showtime Kavi by Varsha Bajaj, illustrated by Pavarti Pillai
Recommended Age – 7-11 years
Themes – School, Friends, Family, Dance, Neuro-Diversity
Kavi loves singing, dancing, and all things musical theatre—so when her school announces a spring musical, she’s beyond excited to audition. But balancing rehearsals with schoolwork, family responsibilities, and her expectations proves harder than she imagined.
Early Chapter Books With Indian Characters
CHAPTER BOOKS
The Door is Open: Stories of Celebration and Community by 11 Desi voices by Hena Khan
Recommended Age: 8–12 years
Themes: South Asian Identity, Community, Growing Up, Belonging, Cultural Diversity
Set in the fictional town of Maple Grove, New Jersey, this heartwarming collection of interconnected stories offers a vibrant snapshot of the South Asian American experience through the eyes of kids who find friendship, identity, and a sense of home at the local community center. From cooking sabji to slaying chess tournaments, falling for new crushes, and challenging stereotypes, each story adds a new layer to this lively and inclusive world.
A Place at the Table by Saadia Faruqi
Recommended Age – 10-12 years
Themes: Food, Friendship, Immigration, Financial Troubles, Racism, Grief, Bullying, Mother-Daughter Relationship
Sixth-graders Sara, a Pakistani American, and Elizabeth, a white, Jewish girl, take a South Asian cooking class taught by Sara’s mom. The girls start as hesitant friends, but their bond grows stronger as they plan to cook a delicious cross-cultural dish together and get on a local food show.
Kareem Between by Shifa Saltagi Safadi
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
“Kareem Between is a book where a young boy named Kareem from Syria deals with big changes in his life. Kareem likes football, but when he goes to the tryouts for his school football team, he doesn’t make it.
But the coach’s son offers him a spot in the spring squad, but Kareem must cheat. Then, a boy from Syria named Fadi moves in, and Kareem is tasked with showing him around the school.
Then, Kareem’s mother has to go to Syria to help Kareem’s sick grandfather and bring Kareem’s grandparents along with Kareem’s mother. But Kareem’s mother cannot come back due to the travel ban. This verse-written book is emotional and shows fearlessness.” – By Parth, Age 10
Karma Khullar’s Mustache by Kristi Wientge
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes – Dealing with Change, Sikh Representation, Family Dynamics, Friendship Struggles, Finding Self, Dealing with Bullies, Self-esteem
Karma Khullar is about to start middle school, and she is super nervous. There are too many life changes happening around her. From her best friend finding a new best friend, to losing her loving dadima, and her dad being the new stay-at-home parent.
But most of all, she finds out that she has 17 hairs that have formed a mustache on her upper lip. With everyone around her focused on other things, Karma has to figure out what to do about her mustache.
The Best At It by Maulik Pancholy
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
“The Best At It” is a funny book about a boy named Rahul Kapoor. Rahul is starting 7th grade, but he is scared of one kid, Brent Mason, the big bully. Rahul and his friend Chelsea have to stand up to him. Then he joins the Mathletes, their school team has never reached the states. After that, the international Bazaar is coming up, at the Bazaar, people from each country show up and showcase their traditions. Will Rahul’s Mathlete team make the states, and will the International Bazaar be a bust or a great event? The book has a lot to tell. – Review by Parth, Age 10
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca
Recommended Age – 10-12 years
A beautiful novel in verse about an Indian American girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother is diagnosed with leukemia. Reha feels torn between two worlds: school, where she’s the only Indian American student, and home, with her family’s traditions and holidays.
Lion of the Sky by Ritu Hemnani
Recommended Age – 10+ years
This is a historical novel in verse about a boy who must leave Sindh, now in Pakistan, and go to India after the partition in 1947. 12-year-old Raj is happiest flying kites with his best friend, Iqbal. Raj can’t wait to celebrate their independence from the British occupation. But when the country is split in two, Raj’s world changes.
Children’s Books for India’s Independence Day
The Bridge Home by Padma Venkatraman
Recommended Age – 9-12 years
In this compelling novel, 11-year-old Viju escapes her abusive father, taking her younger sister Rukku into the perilous streets of Chennai, India. They befriend two homeless boys and struggle to survive. The kids support each other as they build a home across the bridge and dream of a better future.
Aru Shah and the End of Time: A Pandava Novel Book 1 (Rick Riordan Presents) by Roshani Chokshi
Recommended Age – 9-12 years
“Aru Shah discovers she is a reincarnated Pandava while living in a museum. When she accidentally lights the Lamp of Bharata, she awakens the Sleeper, who aims to awaken Shiva, the Lord of Destruction, threatening to end the world. Aru must find a way to save it all.” – By Parth, Age 10
See all books in the Series here.
Fantasy Middle Grade Chapter Books With Indian Voices
Planet Omar: Accidental Trouble Magnet by Zanib Mian, illustrated by Nasaya Mafaridik
Recommended Age: 7–10 years
Themes: Muslim Identity, Immigration, Bullying, Humor, Imagination, Friendship
Meet Omar, a wildly imaginative, funny, and relatable boy who has just moved to a new town. Nervous about starting a new school, Omar prepares for every worst-case scenario—including the possibility that his teacher might be a zombie alien.
With the help of his caring family, strong sense of humor, and vivid imagination, Omar navigates the challenges of fitting in, confronting prejudice, and learning to believe in himself.
See all Books in the Series here.
The Partition Project by Saadia Faruqi
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Young Mahnoor isn’t thrilled when her Dadi moves in from Pakistan—especially when she’s busy with a big school project to make a documentary. But as they start talking, Dadi shares powerful stories from her childhood during the Partition of India and Pakistan. Maha soon realizes her grandmother’s memories are not just history—they’re real, emotional, and worth sharing.
Unsettled by Reem Faruqi
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Immigration, belonging, resilience, identity
Nurah has just moved from Pakistan to America, where everything feels unfamiliar—her accent, her clothes, even her lunch. As she tries to find her place in a new school, she discovers strength through swimming and learns what it means to stay true to herself, even when life feels uncertain.
Any Way You Look by Maleeha Siddiqui
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Self-expression, identity, family expectations, confidence
Ainy isn’t sure where she fits in—her family has strong opinions about how she should dress and behave, but she just wants the freedom to be herself. As she tries to balance cultural traditions, family pressures, and her own voice, Ainy learns that self-expression is more than what you wear—it’s about staying true to who you are.
The Girl Who Stole An Elephant by Nizrana Farook
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Adventure, courage, friendship, justice
Chaya, a bold and clever girl, dares to steal from the rich to help the poor in her Sri Lankan village. But when one of her heists goes wrong, she finds herself on the run with her friends and, yes, an elephant! Their daring jungle adventure is filled with danger, excitement, and the question of what it really means to be a hero.
Other Books in the Series:
Bhai For Now by Maleeha Siddiqui
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Family, sibling bonds, identity, belonging
When Ashar and Shaheer—long-lost twin brothers separated by their parents’ divorce—accidentally discover each other, chaos (and laughter) follow. As they switch places to secretly experience life in each other’s shoes, they uncover truths about themselves, their family, and the meaning of brotherhood.
Golden Girl by Reem Faruqi
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Honesty, peer pressure, family, personal growth
Aafiyah has a secret—sometimes she “borrows” things that don’t belong to her. At first, it feels harmless, but when her father is accused of a serious crime, Aafiyah begins to understand the heavy cost of dishonesty. Written in verse, this heartfelt story explores mistakes, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to choose the right path.
Amina’s Voice by Hena Khan
Recommended Age – 9-12 years
Themes: Friendship, identity, community, courage
Amina has always been shy, preferring to blend into the background rather than stand out. But when her best friend begins drifting away, and a shocking act of vandalism targets her local mosque, Amina must find the courage to speak up and share her voice.
Amina’s Song by Hena Khan
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Identity, belonging, friendship, cultural pride
In this heartfelt sequel to Amina’s Voice, Amina returns from a family trip to Pakistan full of stories she wants to share with her friends back in the U.S. But she soon realizes that not everyone is interested in listening—or understanding. As she struggles with balancing her love for both cultures, Amina finds her voice again through music and self-expression.
Grounded by Aisha Saeed, S. K. Ali, Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow, Huda Al-Marashi
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Themes: Friendship, family, identity, Muslim representation
When four kids from different backgrounds find themselves stuck together at an airport, what begins as an ordinary delay turns into an unforgettable adventure. Over the course of the night, they navigate unexpected challenges, share personal stories, and discover surprising connections that bring them closer.
Omar Rising by Aisha Saeed
Recommended Age – 10-14 years
Themes: Education, perseverance, social justice, friendship
Omar earns a scholarship to an elite boarding school in Pakistan. Excited to pursue his dreams, he soon discovers that scholarship students are treated unfairly—they must work extra hours and are excluded from many opportunities. Despite the challenges, Omar refuses to give up. With the help of new friends, courage, and his determination, he learns to stand up for what’s right.
GRAPHIC NOVELS
Saving Sunshine by Saadia Faruqi, illustrated by Shazleen Khan
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
During a chaotic family trip to Florida, siblings Zara and Zeeshan, who can’t stand each other, are forced by their parents to spend time together. However, when they discover an ailing turtle, they must set aside their differences to work as a team.
Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani
Recommended Age – 8-11 years
For Priyanka, her mother’s homeland exists only in her imagination until she discovers a mysterious pashmina that transports her to a vibrant, colorful India. As she seeks the truth about her heritage, Pri embarks on a journey to find the family she never knew. A story about the challenges and self-discovery that come from balancing two cultures and two worlds.
