Thammi’s Gift by Himani Dalmia is a picture book inspired by the true story of pioneering Indian librarian, Bandana Sen.

Author Himani Dalmia says, ‘While the starting point for this book was a personal story, I wanted it to have layers that speak to every child and every family differently. Losing a grandparent and starting school are two very common and life-changing transitions for pre-school aged children.

Thammi’s Gift acknowledges and validates children’s feelings on these events. At the same time, I wanted to celebrate children’s books and the act of reading – at home and in school – and the role of libraries and librarians, who are custodians of knowledge and culture.’

Illustrator Priya Kurian adds, ‘A few years ago, I met Bandana Sen purely by chance at a school in Delhi, where she was setting up a library. Even in that brief time that we shared, her passion and her commitment to children’s literature and to libraries for children really shone through.

She left a lasting impression on me and I’m glad to have had the chance to make this book with Himani about Bandana who touched so many lives, including mine.’

Tina Narang, Publisher – HarperCollins Children’s Books talking about the book says, ‘A reading space can constitute bookshelves lined with books, quietly beckoning chairs and tables and the unmistakable smell of books. But to transform this reading space into a library, it takes passion, motivation and drive, it takes a Bandana Sen.

Bandana was the dream librarian who turned a library into a magical space filled with the choicest of books, each curated with love and care.

Thammi’s Gift is a beautifully illustrated book that celebrates her remarkable life and work through a story that will touch your heart and make the bond between a grandparent and grandchild even more special.’

 

 

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