Summer Reading List – 50 Children’s Must Read Books On India and Indian Culture & History

Discover captivating books that celebrate India’s vibrant culture, history, and traditions—perfect for your child’s summer reading list. From colorful picture books to powerful middle grade stories, this curated guide helps Indian-origin families connect kids with their roots through engaging, age-appropriate reads.

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Summer Reading List

Looking for the perfect summer reading list that connects your kids to their Indian roots? Compiling a guide on Books About India and Indian Culture and History has been on my mind for a long time, but I never got around to doing it.

A few months back, we stumbled upon Fantasy Chapter Books based on the Mahabharata while my son was reading Percy Jackson and learning about Greek Mythology. That sent me on a hunt to find as many books as possible that introduced India, Indian Culture, and History to kids in a way they would enjoy.

Whether you’re packing for a road trip, planning quiet afternoons indoors, or setting up a summer reading challenge, this guide offers handpicked books on India and Indian culture for kids, featuring vibrant stories, rich traditions, and heartfelt nostalgia.

These aren’t just any books. They’re little time machines—transporting young readers to mango-laden villages, bustling Indian cities, colorful festivals, and homes where daadi’s stories come alive after sunset.

Let’s dive in.

Why Summer Is the Perfect Time to Read Books About India

Summer is made for stories.

Remember those long school holidays in India? Sticky mango juice running down our arms, listening to Nani’s stories, catching monsoon raindrops on the veranda? Now imagine recreating that magic for your children, with books.

This season presents parents with a golden opportunity: less screen time pressure and more room for bonding. And what better way to fill that space than with culturally rich books that entertain while teaching kids about their heritage?

Books about India help diaspora kids:

  • See themselves in stories
  • Connect with family traditions
  • Understand Indian values and festivals
  • Learn new words in Hindi or regional languages
  • Strengthen their cultural identity while having fun

BOARD BOOKS

My Little Book of Krishna- Book Cover- Summer Reading List

My Little Book of Krishna by Ashwitha Jayakumar, Penguin India. Recommended Age: 0-5 years

Naughty little Krishna‘s search for butter leads to an unexpected adventure. This is a charming book that was hands-down my toddlers’ favorite for a long time.

The text is rhyming with a touch of humor, and the illustrations are engaging. There is an activity at the end which the little ones will enjoy. It’s a great book to get started on talking about Krishna and his (mis)adventures.

Other books in the series include:

My Little Book of Lakshmi

My Little Book of Ganesha

My Little Book of Navratri

My Little Book of Shiva

My Little Book of Durga

My Little Book of Hanuman


Good Night India- Book Cover

Good Night India (Good Night Our World) by Nitya Khemka, illustrated by Kavita Singh Kale.

Recommended Age: 0-3 years

This book takes young readers on a tour of India from the Dal Lake in Kashmir to the Palace of Winds in Jaipur, the Gateway of India in Mumbai, the lions in the Gir Forest, the tigers in the Sundarbans, to the Meenakshi Temple at Madurai, and so much more.

A lovely way to introduce the rich tapestry of India to young minds and maybe plan where to vacation on the next trip to India!!

Other books in the series include:

Good Night Yoga

Good Night Rajasthan

Good Night Mumbai

Good Night Delhi

Good Night Taj Mahal


Baby Sangeet - Book Cover

Baby Sangeet Indian Classical Music Book by Aparna Pandey, Vaidehi. Recommended Age: 0-2 years

Introduce Indian classical music through this fun and interactive Board Book. The book includes six instrumental music pieces from the Sitar, Tabla, Veena, Bansuri, Harmonium, and Mridangam. Although the recommended age is for children younger than 3 years old, it’s still great for introducing Indian Classical music to 3-5-year-olds.


India on A Plate!: Indian Food from A to Z- Book Cover

India on a Plate! : Indian Food from A to Z by Archana Sreenivasan

Recommended Age – 0-3 years

Learn the Alphabet while flipping through stunning illustrations of spicy achaar, paani puri, to zafrani pulao. Such a wonderful way to talk about food from every corner of India, for all kinds of occasions.


PICTURE BOOKS

Where Three Oceans Meet- Book Cover

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.


Hair Twins - Book Cover

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!


Mahatma Gandhi- Little People Big Dreams- Book Cover

Mahatma Gandhi (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Jen Khatun

Recommended Age – 5-8 years

Discover the life of Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the father of India. This book is part of a Series of Books that celebrate the life stories of extraordinary people. The illustrations are innovative, and extra facts and real-life pictures are provided at the back.

Must-Read Children’s Books for India’s Independence Day


Ganesha's Sweet Tooth -Book Cover

Ganesha’s Sweet Tooth by Sanjay Patel and Emily Haynes

Recommended Age – 2-6 years

The picture book is a retelling of how Ganesha came to write the epic poem of Hindu literature, the Mahabharata. The book has vibrant, graphic illustrations, expressive characters, and presents a unique twist on a classic tale.

This book is also available as a Board Book for the littlest of readers. See the Board Book here.

Ganesh Chaturthi Books for Kids


Wheels on the Tuk Tuk - book cover

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.


The boy who tried to Shrink his Name - Book Cover

The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name by Sandhya Parappukkaran, illustrated by Michelle Pereira

Recommended Age – 4-8 years

The story follows a young boy who shortens his name to make it easier for his classmates. But when he meets a new friend who teaches him to skateboard, he slowly shows her how to say his full name. The powerful story emboldens children to be themselves and not change who they are to fit in with others.


Summer is for Cousins - Book Cover

Summer Is for Cousins: A Picture Book by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Abhi Alwar

Recommended Age – 4-8 years

Summer is for Cousins is a warm, nostalgic celebration of Indian-American family gatherings. Told from the perspective of a young boy spending the summer at a lake house with his extended family, this picture book captures the joy of simple moments.

Playing at the beach together, riding bikes and solving puzzles, stargazing with cousins, enjoying meals together, and having Ice Cream every day. Rajani LaRocca’s lyrical prose beautifully conveys the comfort of family traditions and the magic of shared childhood summers.


How to Wear a Sari - Book Cover

How to Wear a Sari by Darshana Khiani, illustrated by Joanne Lew-Vriethoff

Recommended Age – 4-6 years

The story of a young girl out to prove that she is not as small as everyone thinks. Perfect for kids eager to grow up and for those who love playing dress-up. It’s a wonderful way to teach children that they are capable of anything they put their heart into and that it’s okay to make mistakes.


P is for Poppadoms - Book Cover

P is for Poppadoms: an Indian Alphabet Book by Kabir Sehgal, Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Hazel Ito

Recommended Age – 4-8 years

An alphabet book celebrating the rich culture, delicious food, and fascinating animals of India. From C for chai to Y for yoga, this alphabet book introduces young readers to the people, places, lifestyles, and language of India. 

The book subtly introduces General Knowledge and Facts about India, making them great conversation starters. There is a list of Hindi words at the back that a budding Hindi learner will enjoy.


Many Things at Once- Book Cover

Many Things At Once by Veera Hiranandani, illustrated by Nadia Alam

Recommended Age – 4-8 years

In this poignant picture book about family and belonging, the child of a Jewish mother and an Indian father hears stories about her family history. Sometimes she doesn’t feel Jewish enough or Indian enough, but comes to realize you can feel and be many things at once.


The Secret Kingdom - Book Cover

The Secret Kingdom: Nek Chand, a Changing India and a Hidden World of Art by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Claire A. Nivola

Recommended Age – 7-10 years

This is the incredible story of the visionary Nek Chand and the amazing Rock Garden of Chandigarh, which was kept secret for fifteen years.

Nek Chand is a refugee who was forced to flee Pakistan for India in 1947. The book is apt for having thought-provoking conversations with pre-teens and young adults about Partition and following your passions and dreams! The illustrations are whimsical, and kids will enjoy looking at real-life photographs of the Rock Garden at the back.


Ritu weds Chandni - Book Cover

Ritu Weds Chandni by Ameya Narvankar

Recommended Age – 5-7 years

Ritu Weds Chandni is about the marriage of two women and the love of family. The book is told through the POV of a young girl who is excited to be a part of her cousin’s wedding, and doesn’t find it odd that her sister is marrying another woman. A great pick to have discussions with children about different kinds of relationships. The illustrations do a great job of taking the reader through each character’s emotional state as the story progresses.


Fauja Singh Keeps Going - Book Cover

Fauja Singh Keeps Going: The True Story of the Oldest Person to Ever Run a Marathon by Simran Jeet Singh, Illustrated by Baljinder Kaur

Recommended Age – 3-10 years old

The true story of Fauja Singh, who broke world records to become the first one hundred-year-old to run a marathon. The story shares valuable lessons on determination to overcome obstacles.

The book deals with several themes, such as a child growing up with a disability, bullying, being an immigrant, and finding your calling late in life. Besides providing a message about persistence, the book touches on real-world issues like racism and depression in a way that is appropriate for introducing to children. 


Mary Kom - Little People, Big Dreams -  Book Cover

Mary Kom (Little People, Big Dreams) by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, illustrated by Jen Khatun

Recommended Age – 6-8 years

This is a Children’s illustrated biography about the Olympian and one of the greatest Boxers, Mary Kom! The book features unique illustrations and extra facts at the back, including a biographical timeline with historical photos and a detailed profile of the award-winning boxer’s life.


Little Sid - Book Cover

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. Little Sid sets off on a journey of discovery and encounters mysterious wise-folk, terrifying tigers, and one very annoying mouse.


Mina vs the Monsoon - Book Cover

Mina Vs. the Monsoon by Rukhsanna Guidroz

Recommended Age – 4-6 years

This is a charming story that any kid who loves a sport will relate to. Soccer-mad Mina tries just about any trick to stop the monsoon clouds from raining on her game. In doing so, you see glimpses of her life in a village in eastern India and the important role played by monsoon rains. The heart of the story, however, is the bond forged between a mother and her daughter on a gray, gloomy day.


Monsoon -  Book Cover

Monsoon by Uma Krishnaswami, illustrated by Jamel Akib

Recommended Age – 4-8 years

It tells the story of a young Indian girl waiting for the monsoon to come after the hot, dry weather. Told through the observations of one young girl, dazzling colors and illustrations vividly evoke the welcome arrival of the monsoon. A nice book to introduce young children to India and the monsoon season. Information about the monsoons and India is included at the back.


Grandma and the Great Gourd - Book Cover

Grandma and the Great Gourd: A Bengali Folktale by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, illustrated by Susy Pilgrim Waters

Recommended Age – 5-8 years

A retelling of a Bengali folk tale. A Grandma begins a perilous journey to the far side of the jungle to meet her daughter. Along the way, she encounters a sly fox, a black bear, and a tiger. Can Grandma use her sharp wit to escape the jungle animals and make it safely home?


Picture Books – India: The Ultimate List

Raksha Bandhan Books: Celebrating the Sibling Bond through Stories

EARLY CHAPTER BOOKS

The Party Diaries- Awesome Orange Birthday - Book Cover

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. See all books in the Series here.


Nina Soni - Former Best Friend - Book Cover

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. See all books in the Series here.


Early Chapter Books With Indian Characters

Children’s Books with South Asian Representation

CHAPTER BOOKS

CHAPTER BOOKS WITH INDIAN AMERICAN CHARACTERS

Karma Khullar's Mustache - Book Cover

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, leading her mother to spend most of her time at work.

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.


Samira's Worst Best Summer - Book Cover

Samira’s Worst Best Summer by Nina Hamza

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

Themes – Friendship, Bullying, Disability, Family Dynamics, Being an Immigrant, Embracing Change

Samira knows this is going to be the worst summer ever. Her best friend ditched her, and her parents and older sister are taking a trip to India. She will be spending the summer with her little brother and Umma. But before she knows, her house gets TP’d!!

When Samira meets new girl Alice, she is determined to figure out who was behind the TP’ing. Suddenly, her “boring” summer is full of clue-finding hunts, garage band practices, and getting to know her neighbors like never before.


Ahmed Aziz's Epic Year - Book Cover

Ahmed Aziz’s Epic Year by Nina Hamza

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

THEMES – Friendships, Dealing with Bullies, Power of Good Books, Family, Building Confidence, Standing up for yourself

Ahmed moves to Minnesota from Hawaii after his Dad got sick and needed special treatment. He is one of the only brown kids in his school, and there is a bully who does not leave him alone. No doubt he hates Minnesota.

At school, Ahmed ends up reading all 3 books assigned for his English class and learns about his uncle who died long ago. Through all this, Ahmed learns about courage and being true to himself.


Red, White and Whole - Book Cover

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. The book portrays the double life she lives and introduces readers to Indian mythology, food, and culture. Rajani LaRocca has a beautiful way with words, and this book touches your heart and soul.


The Whole Story of Half A Girl - Book Cover

The Whole Story of Half a Girl by Veera Hiranandani

Recommended Age – 10-12 years

Sonia Nadhamuni’s life changes drastically when her father loses his job, causing her to leave her beloved private school for a public one, where she feels out of place due to her mixed heritage. As she struggles to fit in with new friends and cheerleading tryouts, tensions rise at home with her mother working longer hours and her father facing emotional challenges. The story captures themes of family, friendship, and diversity in Sonia’s middle-grade journey.


Hope in the Valley - Book Cover

Hope in the Valley by Mitali Perkins

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

Themes Grief, Friendship, Family, Accepting Change, Community

12-year-old Indian-American Pandita Paul struggles with change as she prepares to leave childhood behind for middle school, while grappling with the loss of her mother. After a conflict with her best friend, she retreats to an abandoned mansion to read and write, which also connects her to her mom. When the town plans to demolish the mansion for new housing, Pandita must find her voice and strength to inspire hope in her community.


FANTASY CHAPTER BOOKS

Aru Shah and the End of Time - Book Cover

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.


Rea and the Blood of Nectar - Book Cover

Rea and the blood of the Nectar: the Chronicles of Astranthia by Payal Doshi

Recommended Age – 9-12 years

” In the first book of The Chronicles of Astranthia, Rea embarks on a quest to rescue her twin brother, Rohan, who has been kidnapped by the Queen of Astranthia. Utilizing a banyan tree, she portals into the magical realm of Astranthia, where she discovers her royal lineage as the queen’s niece, possessing magical blood known as nectar. Rea must uncover the truth her Amma has hidden, solve clues to rescue Rohan, and save Astranthia, all while racing against time.” – By Parth, Age 10

The story is set in India, and the author has created a unique world called Astranthia. It is an adventure book in which the main character is Indian and lives in India, with several references to Indian Culture.


Fantasy Middle Grade Chapter Books With Indian Voices

CHAPTER BOOKS BASED IN INDIA

Book Uncle and Me - Book Cover

Book Uncle and Me (The Book Uncle trilogy 1) by Uma Krishnaswami, illustrated by Julianna Swaney

Recommended Age – 7-10 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. See other books in the Series here.


Guilty in Gwalior - Book Cover

Guilty in Gwalior by Meenal Dighe

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

Mini and her friends Krish, Richa, and Aditya are off to Gwalior for the Diwali vacation. The book provides ample content introducing the city of Gwalior and the historical aspects of the city, and the various temples, palaces, and forts visited during the trip. As a priceless artifact is stolen and the little detectives get to work, the readers get to learn about the geography of the city, Mughal history, and are introduced to Sikhism. A great pick for anyone who loves mystery and adventure.


The Bridge Home - Book Cover

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. But when illness strikes, Viju must make a pivotal decision that could change their fate.


Asha and the Spirit Bird - Book Cover

Asha and the Spirit Bird by Jasbinder Bilan

Recommended Age – 9-12 years

Themes – Friendship, Family, Perseverance, Culture, Adventure

Asha lives with her mother on a family farm in rural India while her father works in the city. When his letters stop coming and a malicious aunt tries to take the property and its hidden treasure, Asha decides to find her father.

With the guidance of a mystical bird, believed to be her grandmother’s spirit, Asha and her friend Jeevan journey to the city across the Himalayas to protect her home. The children find themselves in all sorts of situations in the wild, but stay together and come through for each other every time.

There is a decent use of Hindi and Punjabi words in the book, and ample opportunities to learn about Indian Culture.


Thirst - Book Cover

Thirst by Varsha Bajaj

Recommended Age – 10-12 years

Minni lives in a poor area of Mumbai with limited water access, which is further threatened by shortages and theft. Her brother witnesses a water theft and is forced to flee their home while her mother falls sick, and Minni has to take up her job, cleaning homes in a high-rise. Minni struggles with school, computer classes, and keeping her family together. But one day, Minni encounters the water mafia boss at her new workplace and faces the dilemma of whether to expose him at the risk of her job and safety.


Born Behind Bars - Book Cover

Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman

Recommended Age – 10 years and up

Another engaging novel set in Chennai, India, about a boy who is suddenly freed after living his entire life in prison with his mother.

Kabir has been imprisoned since birth due to his mother’s wrongful conviction, growing up without knowing his father. The classroom is his only escape until a new warden disrupts his life by transferring him to a fraudulent “uncle” who plans to exploit him. Desperate to escape, Kabir runs away and finds friendship with Rani, a fellow street kid. Together, they navigate the dangers of being homeless and low caste, while Kabir resolves to prove he and his mother deserve a place in the world.


HISTORICAL CHAPTER BOOKS

Neela - Victory Song - Book Cover

Neela: Victory Song (Girls of Many Lands) by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni

Recommended Age – 9-12 years

In 1939, twelve-year-old Neela meets a young freedom fighter at her sister’s wedding. Soon after, she finds herself in a dire situation. She realizes she must rely on his help when her father fails to return home from a crucial march in Calcutta against British occupation. The book provides deep insights into life in the villages before independence and the struggle of freedom fighters against the British Raj.


Lion of the Sky - Book Cover

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. Hindu, Sikh, and Muslim families are torn apart. Raj’s family must escape and become refugees, starting fresh in a new country. After experiencing great losses, Raj must find the strength to cope with the turmoil in his homeland and his feelings.


Orange for the Sunsets - Book Cover

Orange for the Sunsets by Tina Athaide

Recommended Age – 10 -12 years

Asha and her best friend, Yesofu, who lived in Uganda in 1972, never cared about the differences between them.

But when Idi Amin announces that Indians have 90 days to leave the country, suddenly those differences are the only things that people can see. Asha tries to hold on to her life, while Yesofu struggles with loyalty to friends, family, and the hope for a better future. As tensions rise and soldiers occupy their neighborhood, the two friends realize their relationship is uncertain amid escalating conflict between Indians and Africans and an impending deadline to leave. They face the difficult choice of potentially letting each other go.


BOOKS ABOUT INDIA

Discover India:101 Facts About India - Book Cover

Discover India: 101 Awesome Facts About India by Sonia Mehta

Part of: Discover India (35 Books)

Introduce children aged 4-9 to India’s rich culture with 101 fun facts from Daadu Dolma, exploring its land, people, music, tribes, and festivals alongside Mishki and Pushka.

See all books in the Series here.


My Incredible India (My Amazing Adventures) - Book Cover

My Incredible India (My Amazing Adventures) by Jasbinder Bilan, illustrated by Nina Chakrabarti

Recommended Age – 5-10 years

Experience the vibrant beauty and diversity of India through its people, places, and nature. The book is colorful and visually engaging, presenting information about the different regions and States of India in a fun and informative way without overwhelming the reader with text. A good pick for Geography and travel enthusiasts, and introducing the names of Indian states to children.


Amma take me to the Golden Temple - Book Cover

Amma, Take Me to the Golden Temple by Bhakti Mathur, illustrated by Priyankar Gupta

Recommended Age – 8-10 years

Join Amma and her children on their journey to the Golden Temple in Amritsar, exploring Darbar Sahib’s history, hearing stories of Sikh gurus, visiting key sites like Darshani Deori and Akal Takht, and experiencing the sacred waters and langar, while learning Guru Nanak’s message of equality, love, and service.

Other Related Books:

Amma, Take me to the Dargah of Salim Chishti

Amma, Take me to Tirupati


SHORT STORY COLLECTIONS

Selected Stories of Rabindranath Tagore - Book Cover

Selected Stories of Rabindranath Tagore by Rabindranath Tagore

Recommended Age – 9-12 years

This collection features some of Rabindranath Tagore’s finest stories, translated from Bengali to English. Exploring themes of childhood innocence, love, loss, and the contrast between city and village life, these tales offer deep insights into human nature and colonial Bengal’s socio-economic realities. A timeless classic for readers of all ages.


Bosky's Panchatantra - Book Cover

My favourite stories: Bosky’s Panchatantra by Gulzar

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

This version beautifully retells timeless animal fables from the Panchatantra in poetic form. Adapted by renowned poet Gulzar, these engaging stories teach values like kindness, bravery, love, and justice with wit and simplicity.


GRAPHIC NOVELS

Pashmina - Book Cover

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.


Shakti - Book Cover

Shakti: A Graphic Novel by SJ Sindu, illustrated by Nabi H. Ali

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

Themes: Friendship, Bullying, Family, LGBTQ Representation

A fantasy graphic novel featuring a twelve-year-old Indian American girl, Shakti, who must harness her ancestral magic to save her family and town from a curse.


Aru Shah and the End of Time - Book Cover

Aru Shah and the End of Time: The Graphic Novel by Roshani Chokshi, illustrated by Anu Chouhan

Recommended Age – 8-12 years

The graphic novel adaptation of Aru Shah and the End of Time, a fun and inventive fantasy inspired by Hindu epics. Twelve-year-old Aru’s adventure to stop an ancient demon combines humor, mythology, and heart.


BOOKS BASED ON RAMAYANA

Ramayana - Divine Loophole - Book Cover

Ramayana: Divine Loophole by Sanjay Patel

Ramayana: Divine Loophole by Sanjay Patel is a vibrant, modern retelling of the ancient Hindu epic that brings the timeless story of Rama to life with dazzling illustrations and engaging storytelling.


Final Thoughts: Keep the Summer Spirit and Culture Alive

You don’t have to pack a suitcase to take your kids to India.

Every page of these books holds a story your child will relate to, laugh with, and learn from. From daadi’s backyard stories to monsoon magic, they bring India into your home, one bedtime at a time.

Whether your child is learning about Diwali, laughing at Krishna’s mischief, or sticking Indian state stickers on a map, they’re not just reading.

They’re remembering.

And one day, they’ll pass these memories on too.
Let’s make this summer full of stories—and connections.

Summer reading list - Books on India, Indian Culture and History for Kids

Nidhi Vats
Nidhi Vats

Hi, I am Nidhi, the heart and mind behind Indian Fables and Musings! As a mom of two, I know how important it is to pass down our rich cultural heritage in ways that are fun, engaging, and meaningful. That is why I created this platform to help families like yours connect with India's vibrant history, traditions, and the beauty of the Hindi language. I am so glad you are here. Let's make this journey together!

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