Best Friends

by Asha Nehemiah and illustrated by Subir Roy

“Best Friends” by Asha Nehemiah and illustrated by Subir Roy. Published by CBT. A story filled with warmth about two puppeteers who are looking for their lost puppet.

Gopal and his wife Leela were poor puppeteers. They had two puppets called Raja and Rani who looked regal in their grand clothes. They used to tell stories with these puppets at fairs and festivals for a living. These stories of brave kings and beautiful queens were ones that had been told by their parents and grandparents.

One day they all got wet in the rain. Gopal hung the two puppets on the branches of a tree outside their hut to dry. When Gopal and Leela went out to bring the puppets after some time, they found that Rani was missing. They searched everywhere but could not find their beautiful puppet with her fish shaped eyes and red silk skirt. How would they tell their favourite stories now without Rani? Would they ever find Rani? Could they make a new puppet similar to Rani? How would they cope with the situation? Read the charming story to find out.

My almost eight year old has enjoyed the book for the last two years. A simple storyline but sure to strike a chord. The story won a prize in the Read-aloud Books/Picture Books category in the Competition for Writers of Children’s Books organised by Children’s Book Trust. We have loved some of the other books by Asha Nehemiah such as The Grand Chapati Contest, The Village with a Long Name, Granny’s Sari and Wedding Clothes. Thank you Vidya Mani of Funky Rainbow for recommending this lovely book! It is perfect for a bedtime read.

Recommended Age

The book is apt for children aged 3/4+.

Reasons to Read

For a simple and comforting story that is filled with warmth and sure to bring a smile on little faces.

Where to buy from?

An independent indie bookstore, Funky Rainbow, from where I buy many of my books.