Age rating and parents' guide:HANTU!
by Chandan Yadav
Ages 4–7
HANTU! by Chandan Yadav is best for children aged 4–7. It has no violence, a few mildly scary moments, no romance and no bad language.
Every day, a spooky ghost loves frightening everyone he meets—from fierce lions and giant elephants to strong wrestlers and tough police officers! He cannot sleep peacefully unless he has scared someone. Animal-loving readers can enjoy the story while exploring care and kindness.
Content ratings
How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.
- Violence
- None
- Scary moments
- Mild
- Romance
- None
- Bad language
- None
Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on .
At a glance
- Picture book
- A good pick for reluctant readers
- Indian author, setting or story
Books like HANTU!
Similar stories for the same ages, none more intense than this one should be for its youngest readers.

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. Invites readers to discover and appreciate rich storytelling traditions.

Ages 3–7
Tiger on a Tree
by Anushka Ravishankar
When a wild tiger wanders out of the jungle, it accidentally ends up stranded in a tree, much to its own surprise. A group of curious villagers discovers the big cat and captures it, but they quickly face an unexpected dilemma: what should they actually do with it now? A welcoming introduction to traditions, culture, and shared stories.

Ages 6–8
Karadi Tales (picture book series)
by Various
This series of vibrant picture books introduces children to the rich folklore and everyday wonders of India. Narrated in a lively, musical style, the stories feature clever animals, mythical adventures, and warm family moments. Invites children to imagine, create, and share ideas of their own.

Ages 4–7
Tururu the Flying Bus
by Deogratias Simba
Tururu the school bus is frustrated by traffic jams that make children late for class every morning. Dreaming of soaring through the clouds with wings like an airplane, Tururu imagines soaring over the city traffic—until a sudden midair wobble shows that simple, practical planning might be the best route after all. Makes everyday school experiences a starting point for thoughtful chats.

Ages 4–7
Sweet Tooth
by Dương Ngọc Tú Quỳnh
Aunt Pipi opens a cheerful forest bakery where woodland animals trade wholesome ingredients for sweet treats. When a boastful Tiger demands all the sweets without playing by the rules, Aunt Pipi reminds him of fairness. A reassuring choice for talking about emotions and growing confidence.

Ages 4–7
Penseli za Rangi
by Long Ravy
When Heri receives a brand new box of colored pencils from his mother, the pencils inside are terrified that being sharpened and used will hurt them. Venturing out of their box, they discover a picture book filled with uncolored drawings that long for vibrant shades. A reassuring choice for talking about emotions and growing confidence.
A good book is the start. A mentor makes it stick.
In a free 1:1 session, a trained Bookstaken mentor reads with your child, asks what they think and helps the reading habit last.