book cover

You're Strong With Me

by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Poonam Mistry

Interest age: 3 to 7

Published by Lantana Publishing, 2019

  • Picture books

About this book

The world is overwhelming for Baby Giraffe, but Mama Giraffe is always there to remind her that 'You're strong, with me.' This reassuring story tells children that parental support will be there for as long as it is needed.


The original and intricate illustrations are inspired by traditional painting and embroidery methods used in India. A focus on pattern and an abstract approach combine to give the impression that the book itself is part of the animal world, where senses are sharper and details, from stars in the sky to the patterns on a leaf, are more vivid.

The restrained, earthy colour palette emphasises patterns which are almost microscopically detailed, at times creating an impression of natural camouflage. Overall, the illustrations really encourage children to imagine what it would be like to perceive the world through the eyes of an animal.

Readers will learn a good deal about the giraffes' habitat as well as about family and community, since all the animals that form part of a giraffe's ecosystem are represented as working together in partnership to help and support each other.

About the author

Chitra Soundar is an Indian-born British author and storyteller based in London. She has written over 30 books published across Asia, Europe and North America. Chitra has written picture books, stories for emerging readers, poetry and junior fiction. Chitra grew up hearing tales from Indian epics and folk wisdom and her stories are often set in India, inspired by her heritage.

She often visits schools, libraries and festivals to run writing and storytelling workshops because she believes stories widen our imagination and help us understand the people we share our planet with. She also writes short stories for adults as C Iyengar.

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