Nikhil and Jay Off to India - Paperback

by Chitra Soundar (Author), Soofiya Chitra (Illustrator)

Nikhil and Jay visit India in this third book in the sparkling Early Reader series about a British Asian family

Nikhil and Jay and Amma and Appa are off to India for the Christmas holidays to visit Chennai Granny and Grandad. In Grandad's garden they are excited to see parrots and Chennai squirrels, a mango tree and a coconut tree. One day they go to the beach, play in the big waves and eat Granny's Indian savory snacks.

One day they go to the beach and play Catch Me If You Can in the big waves. The boys have their first Chennai Christmas, with mango-leaf decorations, Indian sweets for Father Christmas, a basket of beautiful Indian wooden toys - and a special Christmas star. And last but not least, the family see in the New Year the Indian way. They make a Welcome poster, Granny lights a lamp at midnight and they all eat Granny's delicious Kesala as an Indian New Year treat.

This third book in the Nikhil and Jay series is perfect for children moving on from picture books to longer stories, helped by Soofiya's lively and characterful illustrations.

Author Biography

Chitra Soundar is a well-known and popular writer for children. Born in Chennai, India, she has written over 40 books, including Holi Hali!, Shubh Diwali!, and Mangoes, Mischief and Tales of Friendship: Stories from India.

With the first two Nikhil and Jay books, she says it is no coincidence that she has two young nephews of whom she is extremely fond, and who appreciate her skills in creating spicy, tasty vegetarian meals. Chitra divides her time between south London and Chennai.

Soofiya Chitra is a visual artist and illustrator. Soofiya's work and writing explore ideas around race, gender and bodies. Their illustrations and design clients include Tate Britain, Mayor of London, Hachette, BBC, Nike and many more. They live close to the sea, and like to spend weekends painting, eating good food and taking care of their houseplants.