Song of the Asunam...a children's graphic novel.

Connecting the two Salamander titles

Hot on the heels of C.G.Salamander's From Makaras to Manticores, which left me longing for more mythical creatures, I dove into Song of the Asunam by the same author and his ever-talented partner-in-crime, Rajiv Eipe. Together, they have an undeniable gift for crafting vivid, unforgettable graphic narratives.

What a formidable duo!

When a fearsome-looking Asunam descends upon his sleepy village, young Vetri knows exactly what to do. Having pored over his grandmother’s old journal, filled with notes on hunting mythical beasts, he reaches for his yazh (a traditional Tamil lyre) and plays a calming melody. The creature is soothed, and soon, Vetri befriends it, naming it Ilangovan.

Vetri and his grandmother's journal

But harmony doesn’t last. The Asunam’s haunting cries unsettle the villagers, and they vote to have it killed. Naturally, they choose Vetri to do the job—after all, he’s the one who knows these creatures best.

Yet inside the cage, Vetri sees the truth: Ilangovan isn’t a monster at all. His grandmother’s journal offers a new clue—Asunams need to return to their kind and roam the song forests, where the music of the woods keeps them alive.

The gorgeous details in Rajiv Eipe's illustrations

So boy and beast set off across rivers, forests, cliffs, and valleys. It is a beautiful tale of friendship, empathy, and the power of seeing beyond appearances. It’s also a quiet but powerful reminder: when we care for nature, nature cares for us.

Love the quirky elements here and there

The background score through the entire story is @rajiveipe’s stunning illustrations—each panel like a musical note, lifting and carrying the story forward, harmonising perfectly with the narrative. They’re lyrical, sweeping, and full of wonder—perfectly in tune with the narrative. Every interlude and each crescendo leaves us with a sense of awe and wonder at the healing bond between nature and humans. 

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If that’s not what a great book should do, what is?

Song of the Asunam

Author: C.G.Salamander

Illustrator: Rajiv Eipe

Publisher: HarperCollins India

Graphic Novel suitable for children 9+

SEL : Social Awareness, Relationship skills, Responsible decision making