Picture Books
A Bindi Can Be
A young girl makes a bindi with her grandmother and discovers what wearing one means to her.
Praise:
… refutes the idea that this familiar forehead dot is merely decorative … Readers learn that there are many different names, designs, and levels of significance …
―Booklist
A beautiful introduction to a mark and decoration of enormous cultural significance makes this title recommended for all collections.
―School Library Journal
The how and why of wearing a bindi is presented in simple text on lush pages filled with details like the variety of names for a bindi, the mortar and pestle used to grind some ingredients, and the circle, star, and moon-shaped designs bindis can be. The message that a bindi can symbolize religious intentions, signal marital status, or be worn decoratively is presented to respect and welcome readers with various levels of familiarity with the special ‘dot’ worn by millions “to celebrate life to the fullest,” and “see the world as one.” Backmatter clearly delineates in kid-friendly terms additional faith practices, uses, and ingredients for bindis. Along with a few other terms, the glossary provides simple insights on the eight different words for bindi and the cultural ties encompassed within them.
―Children’s Literature
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My Name Is Long As A River
In this sweeping picture book, an Indian girl discovers the power of her name as she travels along the river she was named after.
Awards & Recognition:
2025 Notable Studies Trade Book , Children’s Book Council (CBC) and National Council for Social Studies (NCSS)
An ILA 2025 Notable Children’s Book for a Global Society
Praise:
Unlike other stories about names, this book is refreshingly free of tropes like low self-esteem and bullying. Kaveri, surrounded by her a loving family and closely connected to her community, has a journey of empowerment through knowing. Vibrant illustrations provide visual context and make this title specifically South Indian, though it’s universal in its theme. Back matter includes tips for how to be proud of your name and how to learn unfamiliar names when you encounter them.
– Booklist
A heartfelt celebration of cultural heritage. The artwork is vivid, with striking use of color and depictions of clothing, jewelry, foods, rituals, and distinctive temple architecture.
– Kirkus
In “My Name is Long as a River,” the author, Suma Subramaniam gently reminds us of ways in which our names help create our identities. Tara Anand’s accompanying illustrations in gouache paints add layers of color and dimension to the narrative. Together, the writer and the illustrator convey a message of cultural pride, confidence, and empowerment
– India Currents
The tale, inspired by Subramaniam’s own heritage, highlights the importance of cultural identity and the pride that comes from understanding one’s roots.
– India West
My Name is Long as a River is a thoughtful read where Subramaniam opens space for interventions that foster understanding, inclusivity, learning about our differences, and celebrating them. The book and the author encourage us to take pride in our roots and cultural heritage.
– International Examiner
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The Runaway Dosa
“The more you eat, the more you crave! You can’t catch me, no matter how brave!”
With the help of some magical, mythological Indian creatures, chase the Runaway Dosa before it gets away!
Praise:
“Inspired by ‘The Gingerbread Man’ and the popular Tamil rhyme ‘Dosai! Amma, Dosai,’ the story is a whimsical magical trip. The illustrations rely on intricate patterns with traditional Indian touches in the clothing, utensils, and family’s warm shades of brown….for many readers, it will open the door to a world of fantastical beasts. An unconventional twist on a well-known tale.”
― Kirkus
This Tamil-nursery-rhyme-inspired rendition of the Gingerbread Man tale (Run, run as fast as you can!) features a plucky dosa who escapes from the breakfast table and leads two children through a magical forest. If you’re familiar with the mythology, the book is a fun way to see the king of the vultures, multiheaded elephant, and other fantastical creatures reimagined to fit the story. But even if you’re not, the lush illustrations of our round, mischievous dosa friend frolicking through a verdant jungle and catchy rhyme-The more you eat, the more you crave / You can’t catch me, no matter how brave!-make this a silly read for all ages.
― Bon Appétit
Le Dosa En Fuite
« Plus tu en manges, plus tu veux en manger! Malgre ton courage, tu ne peux pas m’attraper! »
Avec l’aide de creatures indiennes magiques et mythologiques, rattrapez le dosa en fuite avant qu’il ne s’enfuie… pour de bon!
C’est l’heure du dejeuner et Akka a faim! Lorsqu’elle prend un autre dosa avant que le reste de la famille n’ait ete servi, elle declenche un sort qui donne vie au dosa, qui s’elance vers la sortie. Akka aura besoin de l’aide de puissantes creatures mythologiques pour recuperer son dejeuner!
Inspire d’une comptine tamoule de l’Inde du Sud intitulee Dosai! Amma, Dosai! et de l’histoire du bonhomme en pain d’epice, ce livre offre une delicieuse touche indienne que les enfants adoreront!
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Namaste Is A Greeting
Namaste calms your heart when things aren’t going right. Namaste is saying “You matter.” What is Namaste? It’s found in a smile, a friendship, a celebration. It exists in silence, it can be said when you’re happy or when you’re feeling low. For one girl in a bustling city, namaste is all around her as she and her mother navigate a busy marketplace. And when she returns home with a plant for an elderly neighbor, namaste can be seen in the caring bond between them.
Praise:
A great purchase with a simple path to showing children how a word can be a way of living, a greeting, and a blessing, all at once.
—School Library Journal
Vibrant, textured illustrations depict a blossoming friendship between the little one and the neighbor, while a series of statements describe what namaste means to the child. . . Visually appealing.
—Kirkus Reviews
This picture book uses gorgeous artwork and simple text to introduce young readers to Indian culture.
—Brightly
This gorgeously illustrated picture book celebrates the culture of compassion and the significant impact small gestures can have. It’s a beautiful lesson for readers of all ages.
—Brightly
This simple story of greeting, sharing and kindness explores the depth of meaning in the word ‘namaste.’
—The Virginian Pilot
Suma Subramaniam’s simple but stirring text explores the significance and meanings of ‘namaste,’ while Sandhya Prabhat’s character-driven illustrations add narrative layers. . . this book feels uniquely personal, powerful, and necessary. The characters express diversity, inclusion, mindfulness, respect, and a heart-glowing sense of warmth. . . . During a season when gifts are given and received, readers might especially appreciate this book’s message of year-round, universal caring.
—The Christian Science Monitor
A sweet lyrical book that reminds readers about the dynamism of the word namaste.
—The Toronto Star
Awards:
1. Winner of the 2023 SCBWI Crystal Kite Award – West REGION.
2. 2023 Bank Street College of Education’s Best Children’s Books
3. NYPL Storytime Collection Book, read by all 88 branches of the New York Public Library System as part of the early literacy program.
4. Best books of 2022 in The Guardian
5. Best books of 2022 in Read Brightly
6. 2023 Northern Lights Book Award
She Sang For India: How M.S. Subbulakshmi Used Her Voice For Change
Before M.S. Subbulakshmi was a famous Carnatic singer and the first Indian woman to perform at the United Nations, she was a young girl with a prodigious voice. But Subbulakshmi was not free to sing everywhere. In early 1900s India, girls were not allowed to perform for the public. So Subbulakshmi busted barriers to sing at small festivals. Eventually, she broke tradition to record her first album. She did not stop here. At Gandhi’s request, Subbulakshmi sang for India’s freedom. Her fascinating odyssey stretched across borders, and soon she was no longer just a young prodigy. She was a woman who changed the world.
Praise:
“This true story will fascinate and charm children who will wonder that the simple act of a girl singing is not permitted. The author does not gloss over the hardships…A wonderful biography for every collection.”
–School Library Journal
“A lyrical commemoration of the power and legacy of a renowned South Indian activist and performer.”
–Kirkus
Awards:
1. 2023 New York Public Library Vibrant Voices Book
2. 2023 Northern Lights Book Award
Fairies
Middle Grade
V. Malar – Greatest Host of All Time
V. Malar can’t wait to celebrate the harvest festival Pongal with her cousins from Seattle. But will they have enough in common to make it enjoyable? An illustrated chapter book about extended family and holiday traditions, kicking off a charming new series.
Reviews:
Culture clash propels this spirited series starter by Subramaniam (My Name Is Long as a River). In the tiny coastal Indian village of Pori, 10-year-old Malar is excited that her Seattle relatives are visiting her family’s farm during Pongal, the harvest festival. Flipping the outsider script by centering the Indian host immediately establishes empathy for Malar, whose enthusiasm for family, farm animals, and village life suffuses this infectious narrative. Animated b&w illustrations by Sreenivasan (My Saree) depict Malar, Priya, and Kamal with verve and individuality, adding giddy energy to a story that encourages gracious hospitality and open-mindedness.
– Publishers Weekly, Starred Review
As readers follow the characters through all the preparations, festivities, and mishaps, they will find lots to like in this fast-paced, energetic novel, including all the cultural details, Tamil words, emotional roller coaster of three spunky children, and line drawings that accentuate the narrative. Ultimately, all is resolved satisfactorily, as the characters find that friendships take time to form, misunderstandings are inevitable, and patience is a venerable teacher.
– Booklist
A heartening tale of cultural clashes, family drama, and ultimately, forged bonds
Malar’s honest, insightful narratorial voice deftly guides readers through rural Indian life, Pongal traditions, and the experience of hosting Western visitors in the global South. Overall, the layered characters and authentic conflict will resonate with a wide range of readers.
– Kirkus Reviews
Openhearted Malar shines in this cross-cultural story of family and friendship. The global message of getting along and reaching across divides could not be more timely.
—Megan McDonald, author of the best-selling Judy Moody series
V. Malar: Greatest Host of All Time tenderly celebrates the power of ritual and tradition to bring family together. It’s a vivid read that sparkles with a sweet and relatable protagonist.
—Maya Prasad, author of Sejal Sinha Battles Superstorms
A beautiful story of family and friendship and an authentic peek into the celebration of Pongal, the Tamil harvest festival. Archana Sreenivasan’s illustrations are evocative and pair gorgeously with Suma Subramaniam’s detailed and rich descriptions. A must-read for all children who have cousins and extended families across the world. —Chitra Soundar, author of the Sona Sharma series
Subramaniam’s warm layers of story are so evocative, akin to a poem of place, people, and family. The story of V. Malar celebrates who we are and what we can be together. I was moved by the art of forgiveness, the rewards of self-study, and the brightness that young Malar brings to all she does. I can’t wait to see what she gets up to next. V. Malar really is the greatest.” —Vita Murrow, author of Power To The Princess
V. Malar: Greatest Host of All Time is an endearing story about patience and friendship. Family, farm animals, food, and a colorful festival make for a delightful backdrop while we cheer on Malar, against all odds, to become the best host ever. The artwork is joyous and a perfect match!” —Joe Cepeda, recipient of a Pura Belpré Honor and a Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor
The Hero Next Door:
From We Need Diverse Books, the organization behind Flying Lessons & Other Stories, comes another middle-grade short story collection–this one focused on exploring acts of bravery–featuring some of the best own-voices children’s authors, including R. J. Palacio (Wonder), Rita Williams-Garcia (One Crazy Summer), Linda Sue Park (A Long Walk to Water), and many more.
Not all heroes wear capes. Some heroes teach martial arts. Others talk to ghosts. A few are inventors or soccer players. They’re also sisters, neighbors, and friends. Because heroes come in many shapes and sizes. But they all have one thing in common: they make the world a better place.
Published in partnership with We Need Diverse Books, this vibrant anthology features thirteen acclaimed authors whose powerful and diverse voices show how small acts of kindness can save the day. So pay attention, because a hero could be right beside you. Or maybe the hero is you.
AUTHORS INCLUDE: William Alexander, Joseph Bruchac, Lamar Giles, Mike Jung, Hena Khan, Juana Medina, Ellen Oh, R. J. Palacio, Linda Sue Park and Anna Dobbin, Cynthia Leitich Smith, Ronald L. Smith, Rita Williams-Garcia, and short-story contest winner Suma Subramaniam
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Poetry
What is Hope?
WHAT IS HOPE? is a poetry anthology of ekphrastic poems for kids from Janet Wong and Sylvia Vardell and Pomelo Books. This book is a The Children’s Book Council “Hot Off the Press” Selection for August 2023.
How can we help children feel more confident and give them a daily dose of hope? With poetry! Inspired by a wide variety of diverse and inclusive black-and-white photos, these poems explore the many places where hope pops up in our lives: when we play a sport, water a garden, do volunteer work, visit a hospital, or even when we take a test.
100% of the profits from this book will go to charity. The profits will be donated to the IBBY International Board on Books for Young People Children in Crisis Fund benefiting children in many countries.
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Poetry Foundation’s Poetry Magazine for The Young People’s Poetry Edition in the March 2021 issue.
Order a copy here: https://poetrymagazine.buysub.com/202103
sumasubramaniam.com 