4 books inspired by Hindu mythology
Published on: 01 November 2024
Author Jasbinder Bilan recommends her favourite books inspired by Hindu mythology.
One of my absolute earliest and most treasured memories as a little girl was walking into my local library and finding the book of my dreams. It was a hardback book of Greek myths and on the cover was the most spectacular and beautiful white-winged Pegasus. I borrowed this book over and over again.
You get the picture! I was a huge myths and mythology fan, so one of my biggest joys was to write a book about the mighty river goddess, Ganga from the ancient Indian myths. Anya’s Quest is a thrilling adventure where two friends Anya and Mahi are invited by Ganga to board her ice chariot and journey around India.
However, this is no ordinary ride. She desperately needs their help to save her very soul as well as the planet. Her waters, she tells them, are polluted and humans are taking her for granted. The key is to get all the children across the world to wake up and listen to the lullaby in their hearts. Ganga needs them to discover their spirit animals and pledge to care for them.
I loved creating this story of discovery and to showcase a myth that not all children in the UK know.
Here are four of my top books on myths and mythology. As you will see, some are family favourites, while others are hot off the press. But they’re all made for sharing! So, I hope you’ll find a special one to celebrate the darker star-lit nights.
Animal Tales from India by Nikita Gill, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat
In this gorgeously illustrated book the author tells us 10 animal stories taken from the famous Panchatantra. The beautiful drawings wonderfully brought to the page by Chaaya Prabhat perfectly match the lyrical quality of Nikita Gill’s poetic prose. This would be such a cosy read around the fire as the nights turn darker.
South Asian Folktales, Myths and legends by Sarah Shaffi
This is a beautiful collection of stories from a wide range of countries. There are animal stories as well as the Rama and Sita story. It’s a great book to share either with a class or at bedtime.
Rama and Sita: A Tale from Ancient Java by David Weiztman
When my boys were little, this was the book we brought out to celebrate the Divali story. They adored the stunning illustrations, which are intricately painted in gold, red and black and had my boys transfixed. The story is woven delicately in the style of a puppet master’s retelling. As it begins, a hush falls, and the imagination fires up.
Goddesses and Heroines: Women of Myth and Legend by Xanthe Gresham-Knight
This is a beautiful book which will be pored over for hours. Within its pages are the myths and legends which were at the heart of so many of our ancient cultures. The fact that these myths were based around the power of the female is sometimes overlooked. I adored reading this book and it reminded me of the strength of nature and how it can help us to be brave and clever and protect our sacred planet.
Anya’s Quest by Jasbinder Bilan, illustrated by Jane Ray, is out now.
Topics: Features
