Nikhil and Jay Off to India

by Chitra Soundar, Soofiya Chitra (Illustrator)

Overview

Nikhil and Jay visit India in this third book in the sparkling Early Reader series about a British Asian family

Nikhil and Jay and Amma and Appa are off to India for the Christmas holidays to visit Chennai Granny and Grandad. In Grandad’s garden they are excited to see parrots and Chennai squirrels, a mango tree and a coconut tree. One day they go to the beach, play in the big waves and eat Granny’s Indian savory snacks.

One day they go to the beach and play Catch Me If You Can in the big waves. The boys have their first Chennai Christmas, with mango-leaf decorations, Indian sweets for Father Christmas, a basket of beautiful Indian wooden toys – and a special Christmas star. And last but not least, the family see in the New Year the Indian way. They make a Welcome poster, Granny lights a lamp at midnight and they all eat Granny’s delicious Kesala as an Indian New Year treat.

This third book in the Nikhil and Jay series is perfect for children moving on from picture books to longer stories, helped by Soofiya’s lively and characterful illustrations.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781915659118
Publisher:	Otter-Barry Books
Publication date:	03/19/2024
Series:	Nikhil and Jay
Pages:	96
Product dimensions:	5.00(w) x 7.75(h) x 0.30(d)
Age Range:	5 - 7 Years

About the Author

Chitra Soundar is a well-known and popular writer for children. Born in Chennai, India, she has written over 40 books, including Holi Hali!, Shubh Diwali!, and Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India.

With the first two Nikhil and Jay books, she says it is no coincidence that she has two young nephews of whom she is extremely fond, and who appreciate her skills in creating spicy, tasty vegetarian meals. Chitra divides her time between south London and Chennai.

Soofiya Chitra is a visual artist and illustrator. Soofiya’s work and writing explore ideas around race, gender and bodies. Their illustrations and design clients include Tate Britain, Mayor of London, Hachette, BBC, Nike and many more. They live close to the sea, and like to spend weekends painting, eating good food and taking care of their houseplants.

Editorial Reviews

"Perfect for younger readers, these short stories offer a glimpse into different cultures and the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren. Fun illustrations break up the text making them the perfect bedtime read." —The Library Consultant

"Soundar's energetic prose and wisecracking dialogue sparkle." —Shelf Awareness for Readers (starred review) on Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship

"In these stories for 6- to 10-year-olds ingenuity and good sense help the boys prevail. Veera and Suku are a great team." —Wall Street Journal on Mangoes, Mischief, and Tales of Friendship

"Motherly consolation meets folkloric Indian artwork in 'You're Safe With Me', a picture book by Chitra Soundar."―Wall Street Journal on You're Safe With Me

"Chitra Soundar's text has the rhythm of a song, with call-like verses and response-like 'You're safe with me' chorus." —Shelf Awareness starred review of You're Safe With Me

"A reassuring yet inventive bedtime book."―Kirkus Reviews on You're Safe With Me

"This chapter book's unique take on the familiar theme of welcoming a new baby is elevated by Soundar's exceptional characterization." ——School Library Journal (starred review) on Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?

 

From the Publisher