Each year, I read dozens of chapter books for my book clubs. Despite that--or perhaps because of that--there were just three that I fell in love with in 2022. That is not to say I didn't like the books I read; I did. I enjoyed most of them thoroughly. Yet, as I looked back at all the books I read, three stand out. They're books I would read and reread even without a book club around the corner. Malhar in the MiddleMalhar in the Middle is a treat! For one, it's utterly relatable. For another, it's sweet without being cute. I love it so much that time and time again, I've referred to it during teacher training workshops, especially as art integration is a crucial part of teaching methodology. I like the names - Kedar and Malhar, I like the ideas, and I love the style of writing.Book activitiesPaati vs UNCLE Paati vs UNCLE is one book that I think I enjoyed even … [Read more...]
Malhar in the Middle
I LOVE Shruthi Rao's books. We read Manya Learns to Roar at my first reading programme, and even before that, I read and loved Susie Will Not Speak. If anything, I liked Malhar in the Middle even more.Malhar loves playing the tabla. But why does tradition demand that he should sit on the side? Why is he is the 'accompanying artiste'? Isn't the tabla player equally important at a concert? A big theme like tradition is handled with the lightest touch possible, and it's beautifully done. I love that Malhar manages to solve his own problem without needless drama or emotional conflict. He knows what he wants, he knows what to do, and he goes about doing it in a way that is as satisfying as it is lovely.Here's what we'll do with the book at my book club. Book Discussion - Tradition What traditions do you like? Are there any traditions that you would like to … [Read more...]