#564 - Akela

by Richa Jha and illustrated by Ruchi Shah

“Akela” by Richa Jha and illustrated by Ruchi Shah. Published by Pickle Yolk. A stunning picture book highlighting the dilemma faced by a writer when it comes to writing.

Akela Lekhan Coot lives in a busy and crowded lane in a bustling city. He seems to be a loner. The lane is buzzing with frenetic activity and the accompanying noises. It does get too much for Akela most of the times. He feels he cannot write with this constant din all around him. His words keep failing him. Isolation and peace are probably what will be of help he thinks. Given how the lane is, this is just not possible unless he thinks of something different. He decides to break free and get away from it all.

Akela starts climbing up the tree behind his house and making a house for himself higher up the branches. Every time he faces problems in the form of distractions or disturbances, he keeps going higher till he reaches the absolute top of the world. He is now far away from all the noise of the street and alone finally. Will his words flow freely now? Will he still struggle to put words to paper? Will he be finally contented? Or is he going to find out something new? Read the book to know if isolation and silence do help Akela get his creative touch that he has been longing for.

We were back to reading a book by Richa Jha after a long time. The surprisingly uncommon in books but such a relevant and relatable topic had me and my ten year old hooked to the book as we turned the pages. Like Akela, most of us who try writing whether frequently or once in a while go through situations where we just can’t write. It can get frustrating and we try to find reasons why we can’t, which may appear like excuses too. The way the topic of creative block and the possible reasons that one can attribute it to has been dealt with in an amazing manner. The message that art and creativity cannot flourish in isolation when we limit ourselves to a bubble and close our windows to the world outside comes through effectively. The illustrations are fabulous with so much attention paid to the details and enhance the narrative beautifully. The book was short listed for the 2024 Valley of Words Book Awards in the Children’s Literature category. Akela is sure to leave a marked impression on our minds long after we have read the book. It is one of those memorable books depicting a range of complex emotions and feelings that most of us may have encountered in some form or the other. The book is bound to fill one with hope and joy by realising the relevance of having a community around us. Though it may seem chaotic and unwanted at times, we cannot stay away for too long :)

Recommended Age

The book is apt for children aged 7 and above.

Where to buy from?

The publishers Pickle Yolk here.