Fiction Books by Indian Authors for Children to be Lost in the World of Fantasy!

It is the time in childhood to be lost in the world of imagination, fantasy, and fiction! And, one of the best ways to ensure that while also instilling in them, the habit of book-reading is taking the route of fiction books. Let's go beyond R.K Narayan and Ruskin Bond and check out these Indian authors and their fiction books that are well-suited for children.

Bonkers! by Natasha Sharma

The book that won the SCBWI India, Crystal Kite award in 2014, Bonkers is all about the protagonist Armaan hoping that the dog Bonkers will protect him from the school bullies, a feeling a lot of children go through. However, the dog had other plans and added to the troubles. Despite the challenges, Armaan's story is one of triumph, resonating with children who long for that feeling. The journey within this story is engaging, and readers may feel a strong connection to Armaan and his experiences. Bonkers is ideal for children aged 6 to 8 years.

Maharani the Cow by Christy Shoba Sudhir

Children always love a bright, colourful picture book and what is better than that also has a story. Such is the book 'Maharani the Cow' by Christy Shoba Sudhir. The author portrays a cow named Maharani, who would not move from the middle of the road. She does not care about the persuasion coming from noisy children or rickshawalla and always loves chilling in the middle of the road. But will she eventually move, is a story for the students to see! Children between 3 and 5 can read this book and enjoy the fictional journey.

My Mother’s Sari by Sandhya Rao

Another picture book, My Mother's sari by Sandhya Rao is a story where the protagonist uses her mother's sari in many ways in her imagination. She plays with it and even wipes her nose with it. But what is most adorable is when she uses her sari to curl up in it to take a comfortable nap. You will be amazed to know that this book, well-suited for children under the age of four has also won an award for '‘Outstanding International Book’ by the United States Board for Books for young people in 2007'.

A Book for Puchku by Deepanjana Pal

If your children love reading, they might relate to this book too. How? Well, little Puchku is always on the lookout for something new to read—she's finished all the books at her library and is searching for more. However, she's so tiny that she can't reach the top shelf! How will she manage to find new books? This delightful journey won the ‘Best Children’s Book’ award from Publishing Next and is perfect for children aged 5 and up.

Junior Kumbhakarna by Arundhati Venkatesh

Who does not like sleeping? Well, Kukku does too! He falls asleep to his favourite story about Kumbhakarna who sleeps non-stop for six months. Even the delicious-smelling laddus can also not wake him up. And, Kukku as well, finds it difficult to get up from his sleep. But was it a dream or did he really meet the Kumbhakarna? Only reading the story can tell us! This book has also won ‘Best Indian Children’s Book’ at the Parents and Kids Choice awards, in 2014. The children aged 4 to 14 can read the book.

Frank Goes To The Market by C.G. Salamander

Don’t children always love going to the market? This story follows Frank on his first trip to the market, and he’s very excited. He eagerly runs toward the tomatoes and the cart of potatoes, but when he turns around to look for his mother, he can’t see her. Is he lost? Will he find his mother, and how? These questions are answered in the story, which also captures the vibrant scenes of Indian markets. This book is ideal for children aged 1 to 6 years.

The Taxi Ride and Other Spooky Stories by Priyanka Sivaramakrishnan and Bhavini

Do your children love spooky stories or ghost tales? Then introduce them to The Taxi Ride and Other Spooky Stories, a book that takes readers on a journey of horror through various tales. Along the way, they’ll encounter murderous spirits, a teacher with a terrifying secret, a mysterious wall, an evil chain email, and more! These bone-chilling stories are perfect for readers aged 10 to 17 years.