Bhakti Mathur's Amma, Tell Me books
The Amma, Tell Me books, youngest first: start with Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!, Amma, Tell Me About Ganesha! and Amma, Tell Me About Holi!. In each rhyming picture book a mother explains a festival or a story from Indian mythology.
8 books, checked for age-appropriate content. Updated .
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken.
- 1
Ages 4–8
Amma, Tell Me About Diwali!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Join Klaka and his brother Kiki as their mother explains the magic behind Diwali, the Hindu festival of lights. Told in lively rhyming verse, the story explores the celebrations—from lighting diyas and bursting fireworks to sharing sweets—alongside the classic legend of Prince Rama defeating Ravana and returning home. With vivid, colorful illustrations, it offers young children an engaging introduction to cultural traditions and folklore.
- 2
Ages 4–8
Amma, Tell Me About Ganesha!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Join young brothers Klaka and Kiki as their mother tells them the tale of Ganesha, the cheerful elephant-headed deity. Told in gentle rhyming verse, the story explains how Ganesha was created, how he came to have the head of an elephant, and why he rides a tiny mouse. With colourful illustrations and a warm family atmosphere, this engaging picture book is a lively introduction to Hindu mythology and the traditions behind Ganesha Chaturthi.
- 3
Ages 4–8
Amma, Tell Me About Holi!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Join Klaka and his mother as they celebrate the vibrant festival of Holi. Through rhythmic verse and colourful illustrations, Amma shares the legendary story of young Prahlad and the demon king Hiranyakashipu, showing how devotion triumphs over evil. She also explains how people celebrate today with bright powders, music, and sweet treats. Children enjoy the energetic, vivid artwork and the festive excitement, making it an engaging and accessible introduction to Hindu mythology and traditions.
- 4
Ages 4–8
Amma, Tell Me About Raksha Bandhan!
by Bhakti Mathur
Klaka and his brother learn all about the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan from their mother. Through lively rhyming verse and colorful illustrations, the story explores the custom of sisters tying sacred threads on their brothers' wrists and recounts traditional tales connected to the celebration, including Krishna and Draupadi. It is an engaging, warm introduction to Indian cultural traditions that highlights sibling affection, family bonds, and festive celebrations.
- 5
Ages 5–9
Amma, Tell Me About Durga Puja!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Join Klaka and his family as they celebrate the vibrant festival of Durga Puja. Told in lively rhyme, this colorful picture book captures the energy of community pandals, festive food, and the beat of the dhak drums. Alongside the contemporary celebrations, children learn the mythological tale of Goddess Durga defeating the buffalo demon Mahishasura. It is an engaging, accessible introduction to Indian culture and mythology that helps young readers connect modern holiday traditions with their ancient origins.
- 6
Ages 5–9
Amma, Tell Me About Krishna!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Join Klaka and his mother as she shares the enchanting story of Krishna's birth and mischievous childhood. Written in lively rhyme with vibrant illustrations, the book introduces young readers to classic Hindu legends, from baby Krishna's miraculous escape from his wicked uncle Kansa to his butter-stealing antics and triumphs over fearsome demons. It is an engaging, cheerful celebration of Indian culture and folklore that invites children into festive storytelling.
- 7
Ages 5–9
Amma, Tell Me About Ramayana!
by Bhakti Mathur; illustrated by Maulshree Somani
Told in engaging rhyming verse, this lively picture book introduces young children to the classic epic of the Ramayana. A mother narrates the grand story of Prince Rama, his brave wife Sita, loyal brother Lakshmana, and the devoted monkey god Hanuman as they face exile, monsters, and the demon king Ravana. With vibrant, colourful illustrations and accessible storytelling, it makes an ancient Hindu legend exciting, clear, and approachable for young readers.
- 8
Ages 6–11
Amma Take Me to the Golden Temple
by Bhakti Mathur
Join Amma and her two curious boys, Shiv and Veer, on an engaging trip to the Golden Temple in Amritsar. Through their journey, young readers discover the history of the Sikh Gurus, the significance of the sacred pool, and the unique architecture of the shrine. They also learn about the tradition of the langar, where thousands share free meals side by side. Filled with warm illustrations and clear explanations, it offers an inviting introduction to Sikh culture and heritage.
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