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Cover of The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories

Age rating and parents' guide:The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories

by Sudha Murty

Ages 9–12

The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories by Sudha Murty is best for children aged 9–12. It has no violence, nothing scary, no romance and no bad language.

This charming collection gathers traditional folk tales and timeless stories remembered by the author from her childhood. Readers meet a lively cast of clever villagers, foolish kings, princesses, and magical creatures, including a drum that produces food and animals outsmarting their foes. Invites readers to discover and appreciate rich storytelling traditions.

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Content ratings

How much of each a parent can expect, from none to strong.

Violence
None
Scary moments
None
Romance
None
Bad language
None
Dhiraj Bodade

Content checked by Dhiraj Bodade, co-founder of Bookstaken, on 21 September 2026.

At a glance

  • ★Early chapter book
  • ★Easy to get into from the first page
  • ★Plenty of illustrations
  • ★Emotionally light
  • ★A good pick for reluctant readers
  • ★Indian author, setting or story

Great for kids who like

  • Fantasy & Magic
  • Action & Adventure
  • Animals

Reading mood

  • Adventurous
  • Imaginative

Good to talk about

  • Friendship
  • Family

Books like The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories

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    Ages 8–12

    The Magic of the Lost Temple

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    While spending her summer vacation at her grandparents' home in a Karnataka village, city girl Nooni falls in love with rural life. She learns to cycle, helps around the house, and explores the nearby forests.

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  • Cover of Asha & the Spirit Bird

    Ages 9–13

    Asha & the Spirit Bird

    by Jasbinder Bilan

    Living in the foothills of the Himalayas, Asha worries when money stops arriving from her father in the city. When a ruthless moneylender threatens to take their family home, Asha sets off on a dangerous trek across the mountains to find him, accompanied by her best friend Jeevan. Invites older readers to reflect on compassion, courage, and resilience.

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  • Cover of The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk

    Ages 6–13

    The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk

    by Sudha Murty

    In this warm collection of real-life stories, Sudha Murty shares memorable encounters and life lessons gathered from her travels across India. From meeting extraordinary people in small villages to unexpected moments of generosity and wisdom, each short tale offers a gentle look at human nature and everyday kindness. Opens conversations about culture, community, and different ways of life.

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  • Cover of Malgudi Adventures: Classic Tales for Children

    Ages 9–13

    Malgudi Adventures: Classic Tales for Children

    by R. K. Narayan

    Set in the bustling, fictional South Indian town of Malgudi, this collection brings together charming tales of everyday childhood, curious animals, and gentle misadventures. Young readers meet unforgettable characters like Swami and his mischievous school friends as they navigate classroom troubles, family dynamics, and unexpected encounters, including a memorable tiger on the loose. Keeps curiosity alive and invites readers to imagine what comes next.

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  • Cover of The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

    Ages 9–11

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    by Astrid Lindgren

    Nine-year-old Pippi Longstocking lives entirely on her own in Villa Villekulla, accompanied by her pet monkey and a horse on the porch. With mismatched stockings, super strength, and a bag full of gold coins, she cheerfully turns sensible rules upside down. Brings a little silliness to reading time and invites shared smiles.

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On these book lists

  • Sudha Murty books for kids

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Questions parents ask

Q: What age is The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories for?
The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories suits children aged 9–12. It is an early chapter book: easy to get into from the first page, plenty of illustrations.
Q: Is The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories appropriate for a 9 year old?
Yes. Bookstaken rates it for ages 9–12. It has no violence, nothing scary, no romance and no bad language.
Q: What should my child read after The Magic Drum and Other Favourite Stories?
Try The Magic of the Lost Temple, Asha & the Spirit Bird and The Day I Stopped Drinking Milk. They share the same kind of story and suit the same ages.
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