#446 - Bipathu and a Very Big Dream

by Anita Nair and illustrated by Parmita Mukherjee

“Bipathu and a Very Big Dream” by Anita Nair and illustrated by Parmita Mukherjee. Published by Penguin. A heartwarming story of nine year old Bipathu who starts believing in the power of universe and dares to follow her heart while pursuing her dreams.

Bipathu lives in the village of Kaikurussi in Kerala. Her Umma works very hard as a cook to manage their family of four after her Vaapa’s (father’s) death two years ago. Bipathu is very close to her Ikka (elder brother), Saad, who is three years older to her. Her younger brother Faesal Kutty is just three years old and thinks that his father is up there on the moon thanks to Bipathu’s stories. Almost every night she has the same dream. Of her playing football with her favourite star Hrithik Roshan and her brother Saad. Sounds quite normal given how kids dream of meeting their role models. Except that there was a big challenge in this case. Saad had cerebral palsy and couldn’t move around by himself. He needed help to do his chores. Bipathu wasn’t even sure that she would get a chance to play football. Ustad from the Madarsa did not like them playing football. How she wished that Ikka could join her while going out. She saw the longing in his eyes to be able to go out and meet other children. Their financial condition was not good enough for them to afford a pair of braces to help Saad learn to walk.

When school reopens after two long years of the pandemic, Bipathu is glad to be back. She finds that Rahul, the new boy in class is as passionate about football as her and befriends him. She also finds unexpected allies in the blind lady called Mythili who has moved to the village from the city, a neighbour called Maash and a rescued puppy named Duggu after Hritik Roshan’s pet name. Bipathu sticks to calling Mythili as Madama since she prefers that instead of her actual name. She seems to be able to share her thoughts and desires with Madama as their bond grows. When Madama gifts a pair of braces to Saad, Bipathu is overwhelmed with joy. She starts believing in the power of the universe. When the class bully Suleiman proves to be a problem in Rahul’s path to training for the football match selections, Bipathu will need the help of the universe once again. Read this endearing book to plunge into the charming world of Bipathu who is sure to leave a mark in your mind.

The book was just amazing. The plot was so moving and gripping that my nine year old and me were both hooked to it. We loved the characters and couldn’t stop cheering for them as the plot progressed. There are layers in the story and this is one of those few books which probably needs to be read multiple times to get them all. Some of the things that we take for granted like saying sorry, being surprised etc were such a novelty for Bipathu. She was stunned when Madama portrayed these emotions. My son was moved by how Bipathu who is the same age as him did so many chores and had so many responsibilities towards her family.

Themes such as friendship, bonding, problem solving, empathy, responsibility, inclusion, bullying, standing up for each other, kindness, perseverance, passion and courage to face problems have been dealt with so beautifully using these endearing and memorable characters. I can go on and on but one needs to read the book to savour all its flavours and underlying nuances. The idyllic life in a village has come through so well through the story. My son’s favourite characters he says are Bipathu and Saad for daring to dream, pursuing the dreams without giving up despite several setbacks and standing up for themselves as well as for each other. He appreciated their love for football. Overall the book is definitely a “MUST READ”.

Recommended Age

The book is apt for children aged 9 and above.

Reasons to Read

For a fabulous contemporary story with an amazing set of characters through whom a multitude of extremely relevant themes have been deftly woven together to create an endearing and unforgettable experience.

Disclaimer - We received this book from the publisher, Penguin India, for review. Thank you to Mansi, from Penguin, for sending across the book!