Indian Daddy's Blog

  Vijayan Detha (1926-2013), affectionately known as "Biji," was an Indian literary icon. In the 20th century, Detha was widely regarded as the most significant writer of Rajasthani prose. He wrote more than 800 short stories during his lifetime, demonstrating his creative genius and dedication to preserving Rajasthan's cultural heritage. Born in Borunda, Rajasthan, Detha collected and retested folk tales from the Marwar region for decades. The stories, steeped in tradition and wisdom, captured the essence of Rajasthani culture, bringing its vibrant ethos to life for readers across India and beyond. He wrote with equal eloquence for adults and children, combining universal themes with local flavor in his tales. In recognition of his contributions to literature, Detha received the Padma Shri, the Rajasthani Ratna Award, and the Sahitya Akademi Award. Many of his stories were translated into multiple languages, earning him not only national fame but also international ...

It was a chilly evening, and I had just returned home from the office, exhausted from the day’s work. I had barely settled down to rest when my son approached me with a worried expression. He had just realized, amidst his usual routine of homework and chores, that he had a craft project due the next morning. His assignment? To make a Christmas tree using marble paper—a material I had never even heard of before. His concern was evident. With a tense voice, he explained his predicament and apologized for not remembering earlier. He even tried to use the craft materials we had at home but quickly realized they wouldn’t suffice. His frustration was palpable, and for a moment, I considered leaving him to figure it out on his own. After all, it was late, and the chances of finding an open stationery shop seemed slim. But seeing his anxious face softened my resolve. Despite my weariness and the late hour, I decided to help. I put on my shoes, grabbed my jacket, and stepped into the chilly...

  Stephanie Seales is a dynamic voice in children’s literature, known for her unwavering passion for racial justice and her ability to craft stories that resonate with readers of all ages. Born in California and raised in Panama, Seales brings a unique perspective to her work, weaving cultural diversity and inclusivity into her stories. As a children’s literature expert, Seales has immersed herself in almost every facet of the industry, including working in bookstores, libraries, and schools. This hands-on experience has deepened her understanding of the transformative power of storytelling. She wholeheartedly embraces Toni Morrison's philosophy of writing books that she wants to read—a principle evident in her compelling narratives. Seales has received widespread acclaim from leading publications such as Kirkus , Publishers Weekly , Booklist , BookPage , School Library Journal , and The Horn Book . Her works have been praised for their depth, relatability, and the important conver...

Sir Terry Pratchett (1948-2015) stands as one of the most beloved and influential authors of modern literature. Known for his wit, imagination, and profound storytelling, Pratchett’s works have enchanted readers across the globe. Over his lifetime, he authored more than 50 bestselling books that have collectively sold over 100 million copies worldwide, securing his place as a literary icon. Pratchett’s magnum opus, the Discworld series, began with the publication of The Colour of Magic in 1983. This imaginative series—set in a fantastical flat world balanced on the backs of four elephants standing on a giant turtle—explores themes of humanity, politics, and the absurdities of life with humor and philosophical depth. His ability to weave intricate worlds, populated by memorable characters, has left an indelible mark on fantasy literature. Beyond Discworld , Pratchett’s contributions to children’s literature are equally notable. Works such as The Carpet People , Dragons at Crumblin...

Sally Gardner: A Remarkable Journey of Creativity and Perseverance Sally Gardner is an inspirational figure whose life and work resonate deeply with readers of all ages. Born in London, she has become a celebrated novelist and children's book author, with over two million copies sold in the UK alone. Her stories, which have been translated into more than 22 languages, continue to captivate audiences worldwide. Despite facing significant challenges due to dyslexia, she achieved academic excellence, earning the highest honors from a leading London art college. She further honed her artistic skills by securing a scholarship to a prestigious theater school. Her early career as a costume designer for notable productions showcased her creativity and artistic vision. However, it was after the birth of her children that her journey as an author truly began. Inspired by her love for storytelling and illustration, she transitioned into writing and illustrating picture books, paving the way f...

Jabari Asim is a celebrated American author, poet, and educator whose works captivate readers of all ages. Whether crafting joyful board books for toddlers or thought-provoking literature for adults, Asim’s writing combines creativity, cultural richness, and historical insight. For children, Asim’s works encourage curiosity, laughter, and a sense of wonder. His board books, such as Whose Toes Are Those? and Whose Knees Are These? , feature playful, rhythmic verses and vibrant illustrations that delight little readers while celebrating diversity and self-love. His picture books and middle-grade stories often explore African American history, making complex topics accessible and empowering for young readers. Beyond children’s literature, Asim’s talents extend to poetry, drama, and essays. His thought-provoking works appear in prestigious anthologies and periodicals, showcasing his unique perspective on social issues, politics, and culture. Asim is also a professor at Emerson College...