Ranjit Lal Livres

A hilarious glimpse of the complex lives of insects These fourteen scintillating stories are marked by Ranjit Lal's usual combination of meticulous research, rollicking storytelling and fascinating characters. Nimbu, the caterpillar, resolves to go on a diet inspired by the stick insect. Cheeni Chor, the ant, discovers a refrigerator stuffed with goodies and is driven to rebellion. Ladoo Gulabjamun, one of the resident cockroaches of the famous Golden Thali Restaurant, decides to take on the management to impress his ladylove. You will also meet the body-building cricket, the dung beetles who like to party and a host of other insects who reveal their inner lives as never before and are true to both the insect and human world. Lal's mastery of the world of birds and beasts, as captured in Crow Chronicles and The Life and Times of Altu Faltu , also extends to the world of insects, and this is perhaps his most enchanting and comical book to date. Rahul Dutta's unusual and striking illustrations capture the magic of worlds Lal reveals.

The story follows Avantika Singh, affectionately known as General Gosling, who was born on a Boeing 747 over the Arabian Sea. Raised at Shadow House with her siblings—Duckling and the twins Dingaling and Dumpling—she navigates life under the care of her eccentric grandfather, Nana, and his charming partner, Shabby Aunty. The narrative promises a blend of whimsy and adventure, highlighting the unique family dynamics and the imaginative world they inhabit.

What do you do when you discover an unspeakable truth about your parents? The Diwanchand family boasted of having only sons, no daughters. The water from a magical well in their farmhouse was the reason behind this ‘good fortune’, they said. One day, fifteen-year-old Gurmi sets out to look for the well and what he sees changes everyone’s world forever. The faces of three girls look up at him from the water, and draw him into a world of fun, games and cyber magic—and Gurmi has to face up to an unnerving truth as murky as the surreal well. What terrible crimes have been committed behind the walls of the rambling Diwanchand family home? Will Gurmi and the ghost-girls be able to avenge the evil that has taken place and prevent yet another unspeakable atrocity from occurring? Funny, yet sensitive and immensely powerful, Faces in the Water is the story of lives lost to appease our society’s insatiable hunger for male children, and the price families pay for its sake.

Exploring themes of love and compassion, this poignant narrative delves into the complexities of human relationships and the moral dilemmas we face in offering help to others. It highlights the significance of connection in a world often divided, prompting readers to reflect on their own choices and the impact of their actions on those around them. The story resonates deeply with contemporary issues, making it a powerful commentary on our shared humanity.

Set against the backdrop of Bedlam House near Mumbai, two teenagers, Bozo and Chick, are well-acquainted with their coastal surroundings. Their peaceful lives are disrupted when they notice suspicious individuals arriving by boat, carrying mysterious packages. This discovery sets the stage for an adventure that tests their courage and resourcefulness as they delve into the secrets lurking in their familiar environment.

The story follows the thrilling escapades of two baby sparrows who escape from their mundane lives. As they navigate the challenges of the outside world, they encounter various creatures and learn valuable lessons about friendship, courage, and survival. Ranjit Lal's engaging narrative captures the essence of adventure and the beauty of nature, making it a delightful read for young audiences. The charming illustrations complement the tale, enhancing the experience of this heartwarming journey.

In a tale filled with unexpected twists, an owlet becomes an unlikely companion to a cricketer and a wrestler as they navigate the chaos surrounding a crucial cricket match. As the stakes rise, a series of mishaps threaten their plans, leading to humorous and heartwarming moments. This story explores themes of friendship, resilience, and the unpredictable nature of both sport and life.

The story follows Tadpole and her brother Vishwajit as they explore the enchanting grounds of Medley Gardens, an old house enveloped by a forest of talking trees. Their adventure unveils a magical world where nature communicates, offering a unique blend of whimsy and discovery. The children's interactions with the trees promise to reveal secrets and lessons about the environment and friendship, making for an engaging narrative filled with imagination and wonder.

Exploring the ancient history of life on Earth, this book delves into the existence of a species that predates both apes and humans. It uncovers their evolution, survival strategies, and the impact they had on the planet's ecology over millions of years. Through rich storytelling and scientific insights, the narrative reveals how these early beings shaped the world we know today, offering a fascinating perspective on the interconnectedness of all life forms throughout history.