15 must-read books for every Indian child. If you are a bookworm and you are looking for some exciting books to read then this list is perfect for you. Read the full article and tell us which one is your favorite book.
Indian literature is vast in itself. Every year millions of English books and Hindi books are published in India. Many books in the local language are also published.
To instill a love for reading and cultivate a deep appreciation for India’s rich heritage; it is essential to introduce children to books that not only entertain but also enlighten. But with so many books in the market, it is difficult to choose books for reading. To make your task easier, we have prepared a list of 15 must-read books for every Indian child.
Malgudi Days – R.K. Narayan
Malgudi was published in 1943 by R.K. Narayan. It is a must-read book for every Indian child. The book comprises a collection of 32 short stories. All these stories are based on the fictional town of Malgudi, which is located in Southern India. Each story in Malgudi portrays a different aspect of life.
In this book, the author tells us about the everyday life, funny moments, and challenges of different people in this town. Each story teaches us something good and helps us understand the culture of India. It’s like taking a little trip to a special place through stories. The book is easy to enjoy, and your child can learn important things from it. It’s a classic book that people of all ages can enjoy and learn.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
Panchatantra – Vishnu Sharma
It is the most famous must-read book for every Indian child. Without reading ‘Panchatantra’; your childhood is incomplete. It is a collection of ancient Indian fables. Panchatantra imparts moral lessons through captivating animal stories.
The book is full of wisdom and helps us understand good values in a fun way. It’s a great book for children and people who like stories that teach important lessons. It was my favorite book in my childhood, is it yours?
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
The Guide – R.K. Narayan
‘The Guide’ novel was published in 1985. It was written in English by R.K. Narayan.
This book tells the story of Raju, a man who starts as a guide and becomes a spiritual leader. It teaches about life choices and consequences.
For children, this book helps in understanding right and wrong, the consequences of actions, and the importance of making good choices. Through Raju’s journey, kids can learn about different aspects of life, making the book both entertaining and educational. It sparks curiosity, moral thinking, and broadens perspectives, contributing to their overall development and this makes it a must-read book for every Indian child.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
The Private Life of an Indian Prince – Mulk Raj Anand
“The Private Life of an Indian Prince” by Mulk Raj Anand is a must-read book for every Indian child as it deals with the abolition of the princely state system in India. It is a novel that was first published in 1953.
This book is about a prince named Ranji and his adventures outside the palace. For children, the book is like a journey to another world, showing them different places and people.
It helps kids learn about Indian culture and history. The story teaches important lessons about kindness, friendship, and understanding others. Reading about Ranji’s experiences can broaden children’s minds, making them more open to different ideas and people.
Overall, the book is a fun way for children to explore new things and develop a love for learning.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
The Blue Umbrella – Ruskin Bond
Ruskin Bond was one of my favorite writers in my childhood. All his stories, novels, and books share a valuable message with children. All his stories connect nature with humans. ‘The Blue Umbrella’ is also a picturesque Himalayas. This heartwarming tale explores the themes of kindness, jealousy, and redemption, making it a must-read book for every Indian child.
This book is about a little girl named Binya who trades her leopard’s claw pendant for a beautiful blue umbrella. The story unfolds with jealousy and forgiveness.
For children, it’s a delightful tale that teaches about sharing, kindness, and the value of understanding others. The book helps in developing empathy as kids relate to Binya’s emotions. Through this heartwarming story, children learn moral lessons about honesty, forgiveness, and the joy of giving.
It’s a charming narrative that not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons, aiding in children’s emotional and social development.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
My India – Jim Corbett
Have you ever heard of Jim Corbett National Park? If you are an Indian, you must have heard. My India is based on the Jim Corbett National Park.
“My India” by Jim Corbett is a collection of stories about the author’s experiences with wildlife in India.
For children, the book is like going on exciting adventures in the jungle. It helps them learn about animals, nature, and the importance of conservation. The stories inspire curiosity and a love for wildlife. Reading about Jim Corbett’s encounters with animals like tigers and leopards encourages a sense of awe and respect for the natural world.
Overall, the book stimulates a sense of wonder, environmental awareness, and a connection to India’s rich biodiversity, contributing to children’s educational and emotional development and this makes it a must-read book for every Indian child.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
Train To Pakistan – Khushwant Singh
Another best must-read book for every Indian child is ‘Train To Pakistan’. This story narrates the events of the Partition of India that took place in August 1947.
“Train to Pakistan” by Khushwant Singh is a story about a small village during the partition of India. It shows how people cope with difficult times and learn about humanity. While the book may be more suitable for older readers due to its themes, it can indirectly help children by promoting understanding, tolerance, and empathy.
It introduces them to historical events and diverse cultures, encouraging a compassionate perspective. However, parental guidance is advised due to the sensitive nature of the content.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
Godan – Munshi Premchand
“Godan” by Munshi Premchand is a must-read book for every Indian child. It tells the story of Hori, a poor farmer, highlighting social issues and the importance of hard work. While the language may be challenging, the book indirectly fosters empathy, social awareness, and ethical values.
It introduces children to diverse lifestyles and encourages a sense of justice. With parental guidance, “Godan” becomes a valuable tool for instilling social consciousness in young minds, making it a must-read for understanding India’s rich cultural and societal tapestry.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
The Room on the Roof – Ruskin Bond
“The Room on the Roof” by Ruskin Bond is a must-read book for every Indian child. It follows the adventures of Rusty, an English boy in India. The story explores friendship, cultural differences, and the joy of discovery.
For children, it’s a journey into a vibrant world filled with life lessons. The book encourages curiosity, fosters a love for nature, and imparts values like friendship and resilience. With its relatable characters and engaging narrative, “The Room on the Roof” becomes a delightful and enriching read, contributing to a child’s emotional and moral development.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
The Story of My Experiments with Truth – Mahatma Gandhi
This autobiographical work provides a glimpse into the life of one of India’s greatest leaders, Mahatma Gandhi, offering valuable lessons in truth, non-violence, and self-discipline. It shows how Mahatma Gandhi fought for India’s freedom without violence.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
Tales of Fabled Beasts and Indian Mythology – Anita Nair
As India is a diverse country, India has a rich culture in mythology. ‘Tales of Fabled Beasts and Indian Mythology’ is a good book to introduce the concept of God to your child. This book features captivating stories of gods, goddesses, and mythical creatures that have been passed down through generations.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
The White Tiger – Aravind Adiga
“The White Tiger” is a dark humor story that portrays India’s struggle with class in a globalized world. It follows the first-person narrative of Balram Halwai, a young man from a small village who is living in poverty. To improve his situation, he moves to Delhi and takes a job as a chauffeur for the wealthy. It is a must-read book for every Indian child for educational purposes.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
A Suitable Boy – Vikram Seth
This book is a must-read book for Indians as it portrays the post-independence and post-partition of India. The book narrates the tale of four households for 18 months. The focal point of the story is Mrs Rupa Mehra’s endeavor to find a desirable match for her younger daughter, Lata. This novel ranks among the lengthiest books ever published in a single volume in English.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in Hindi
Fasting, Feasting – Anita Desai
‘Fasting, Feasting’ is a story of a family that lives in a small town in India. In the town, the provincial customs and attitudes dictate the future of children. It is an inspirational must-read book for every Indian child.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Vanity Bagh – Anees Salim
Last but not least a must-read book for every Indian child. This book is different from others as it is about hopelessness. It is about a boy from a minority community. The intensity of distress and the rise of religious intolerance have created a dangerous divide among humanity. This issue has become so crucial that it can even determine the outcome of elections. It’s a thrilling yet alarming time to be alive as we witness these powerful forces shaping our world.
Click here to Buy this book on Amazon in English
Conclusion:
In cultivating a love for these 15 must-read books, Indian children embark on a literary journey that not only enhances their reading skills but also imparts valuable life lessons. From tales of kindness and resilience to cultural celebrations, environmental stewardship, and global perspectives, each book contributes to a child’s overall intellectual and emotional development.
Encouraging children to read diverse stories not only broadens their horizons but also fosters curiosity, empathy, and a deep connection to India’s rich heritage. Let’s celebrate the magic of storytelling and inspire a generation of lifelong learners. Happy reading!