There is a beat that is always there in this book, waiting for its cue in the background…one that strikes loudest at the most unexpected moment. The people of the Sundarbans, like communities living in other areas rich in biodiversity, revel in their proximity to the flora and fauna around them, while developing traditions and practices that protect them from the dangers arising from human–nature conflict. The Hooghly, almost Jekyll-and-Hyde-like, shapes their lives. It gives

We are all storytellers. We all live in a network of stories. There isn’t a stronger connection between people than storytelling.” - Jim Neil Smith Every year, as I put up my Christmas tree, I’m reminded of just how true this is. My ornaments aren’t just decorations; they are stories. Each one has been chosen or gifted with care, thought, and intention. Together, they reflect moments from our lives: our travels, the people we love, celebrations, interests, an

We got back to organising a Book Day last year, after many years. At that time, I was advised to build up to the day. With many activities planned around books and reading over a month, we approached ‘Book Day’, which was filled with author sessions, with much excitement and anticipation. This year, we knew we needed to spread it across a week, due to various logistical considerations. Last year's success with the ‘build-up’ around books and reading led us to realise that t

As the year draws to a close, I find myself pausing to reflect on the months that have passed. It has been a year that stretched me gently but firmly, nudging me into new spaces before I even realised I had stepped into them. My work continued to revolve around books and children, and the small, luminous moments that happen when the two come together. That has been the quiet centre of my year. One experience, in particular, stands out every time I reflect on this journey: Lit

Book mail is always a delight, especially when you least expect it. I hadn’t yet signed up for Pratham Book‘s 'One Day, One Story'...

A few months ago, I had the opportunity to work with a group of middle graders on a cross-border literary exchange. One of the books we...

Can you imagine your worst day ever? Now multiply it by 10. Would you believe me if I told you that it would still not match up to...

A wonderful picture books about the power imagination, of thinking outside-the-box and collaboration.

A delightful new children's graphic novel by the wonderfully talented duo or C.G. Salamander and Rajiv Eipe

I stumbled upon C.G. Salamander's From Makaras to Manticores much like the author repeatedly stumbled upon the journal of one Thomas...

“Aunty, this is N. We have started a new library. Please visit us.” I can rarely resist an invitation to visit a library, but when it is...

“The Camino provides” is a term that I kept coming across when I started planning to walk the Camino Santiago. It is a metaphor for many...

Every year around Valentine’s Day I get asked by my younger elementary children what my read for the week is going to be. Valentine’s Day...

A delightful book for Christmas

"It's the most wonderful time of the year There’ll be much mistletoeing, ...

Isn't it wonderful when a place feels like it knows you, knows your history, your tastes, and even your little guilty pleasures? For me,...

‘On the highest rock of a tiny island at the edge of the world, stands a lighthouse. It is built to last forever.’ Hello, Lighthouse ...

This term I planned a unit on books about people who created different things. I do not want to use the word inventor or scientist,...

Day 1 Camino Portuguese April-May2024

A Book Review of Julia and the Shark a book that touches upon mental health, those experiencing it and those witnessing it.