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Early Chapter Books with Indian Characters
Early chapter books are a special reading stage—where stories grow a little longer, characters become more layered, and young readers begin to see themselves in the books they read.
For children of Indian origin, finding characters who eat the same foods, celebrate the same festivals, or speak the same languages can make a big difference in building confidence and a love for reading.
In this post, I’m sharing a thoughtfully curated list of early chapter books featuring Indian voices—stories that reflect the richness of our culture while being fun, relatable, and just right for growing readers.
FICTION
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. They are often busy helping Nina realize her dreams or resolving the chaos that often results. 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.
Nina Soni, Sister Fixer Book 2
Nina Soni, Master of the Garden Book 3
Nina Soni, Halloween Queen Book 4
Awesome Orange Birthday: A Branches Book (The Party Diaries #1) by Mitali Banerjee Ruths, illustrated by Aaliya Jaleel
Recommended Age – 5-7 years
This is a full-color early chapter book series, with 5 books in all. The content is perfect for early readers as the format is a mix of pictures, lists, diary entries, and bold text.
Priya starts a party-planning business to help save the planet – one party at a time! The protagonist is a good role model as someone who puts her ideas and goals into action. The book does a great job of introducing South Asian culture, food, and clothing in a fun and easy-to-understand manner.
First book of a 5-book series.
Starry Henna Night: A Branches Book (The Party Diaries #2)
Top Secret Anniversary: A Branches Book (The Party Diaries #3)
Fairy-Tale Puppy Picnic: A Branches Book (The Party Diaries #4 )
Lucky Mermaid Sleepover: A Branches Book (The Party Diaries #5)
Book Uncle and Me (The Book Uncle trilogy, 1) by Uma Krishnaswami, illustrated by Julianna Swaney
Recommended Age – 6-9 years
A novel about the power of grassroots activism and how kids can make a difference. Every day, 9-year-old Yasmin borrows a book from Book Uncle, a retired teacher who has set up a free lending library on the street corner. But when the mayor tries to shut down the rickety bookstand, Yasmin has to do something.
The story is set in India and will appeal to people familiar with Indian culture or those interested in learning about it.
Other Books in the Series:
Birds on the Brain (The Book Uncle trilogy, 2)
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. What makes this book shine is how authentically it captures the voice of a young Desi girl navigating her passions and her place in the world.
The Kids in Mrs. Z’s Class: Rohan Murthy Has a Plan by Rajani LaRocca Recommended Age – 7-9 years
Themes – Entrepreneurship and Ambition, Responsibility, Friendship, Teamwork, Overcoming fears
Inspired by his mom, Rohan wants to start his own pet care business and help raise money for his school’s garden. The only catch? He’s never taken care of an animal before!
When Rohan volunteers to babysit the class guinea pig, Honey, things don’t go quite as planned. Can he overcome his fear and prove that he’s ready to handle big responsibilities?
See all Books in the Series here.
Sanya’s New Starts (Sanya’s World, Book 1) by Aditi Wardhan Singh, Sharvi Singh
Recommended Age – 5-9 years
Themes – Self-discovery and Confidence, Family and Sibling dynamics, Friendship, Imagination and Creativity
Sanya Singh is 11 years old and full of imagination, creativity, and curiosity. Whether she’s making friendship bracelets or figuring out where she fits in a world full of changes—new home, new baby brother, new glasses.
With thoughtful reflections and fun, out-of-the-box thinking, Sanya learns that true belonging doesn’t come from changing yourself—it comes from embracing who you already are.
Sejal Sinha Battles Superstorms (Book 1) by Maya Prasad, illustrated by Abira Das
Recommended Age – 6-9 years
If you love science, adventure, and a touch of magic, you’ll love meeting Sejal Sinha—a curious, imaginative Indian American girl who’s always ready to explore the world around her!
Sejal is getting ready for Diwali when a hurricane threatens to ruin the celebration. With her cousin Mira and her trusty (and surprisingly talkative) stuffed animal Professor Cheetah, Sejal uses her magical cardboard box to build a Hurricane Hunter and fly right into the storm! Along the way, the girls learn about real-life science, like the historic Project Stormfury, and discover the power of bravery and curiosity.
First book of a 3-book series.
Sejal Sinha Swims with Sea Dragons (Book 2)
Sejal Sinha Dives for Diamonds on Neptune (Book 3)
NON FICTION
She Persisted: Kalpana Chawla by Raakhee Mirchandani, Chelsea Clinton, Alexandra Boiger (Illustrator), Gillian Flint (Illustrator)
Recommended Age – 6-9 years
This inspiring early chapter book tells the powerful true story of Kalpana Chawla, the first Indian-born woman to travel to space. Raised in India, Kalpana faced many challenges and was told that her dreams of becoming an aeronautical engineer weren’t realistic for girls. But she didn’t give up. She worked hard, moved to the U.S. for higher studies, and eventually joined NASA—turning her childhood dream into a reality.
She Persisted: Kamala Harris by Raakhee Mirchandani, Chelsea Clinton, Alexandra Boiger (Illustrator), Jessica W. Clark (Illustrator)
Recommended Age – 6-9 years
The story of Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black woman, and first South Asian American to become Vice President of the United States. From a young age, Kamala showed a deep desire to help others and stand up for justice. Whether she was organizing with her community, fighting for fairness as a lawyer, or making history in the Senate and the White House—Kamala always persisted.
Who Was Gandhi? by Dana Meachen Rau, Who HQ, illustrated by Jerry Hoare
Recommended Age – 8-12 years
Part of: Who Was?
An easy-to-read and well-written Children’s Biography of Mahatma Gandhi.
Picture Books About India – The Ultimate List
