Ahimsa

"Kelkar gives us a front row seat at a critical moment in history with skill and emotion as we journey through India with Anjali, a feisty, inquisitive daughter of a freedom fighter who strives to stay true to Gandhi's philosophy of nonviolence, ahimsa, while tackling issues of colonialism, caste, women's rights and communal violence at the eve of the country's independence."

"As the world around us is getting more divided, Supriya has written a simple and yet compelling story about love and tolerance. Both her protagonists are strong women who take the lead in changing the world, even though one of them is only 10. Read out AHIMSA to your children. Its an important lesson delivered through a delightful story."

"Young Anjali’s journey of awakening opens windows upon the complex history of India’s independence struggle. With simple text and dramatic action, we are drawn into one girl’s life and the steps she must take in her swiftly changing world. Here is a compelling character—impetuous, intelligent, and brimming with heart. At the same time, Kelkar’s novel reveals the power of compassion, as Anjali grows to be a clear-eyed witness to her time and a hero for our own."Uma Krishnaswami, author of Step Up to the Plate, Maria Singh

"This is a story that is both easily enjoyable and hard to put down. Fluid writing and a delightful, realistic point of view make Ahimsa an enjoyable period piece for young adults."

"Smoothly and realistically depicts the complex segregated world of India in those years, including characters from different castes. . . Kelkar builds compelling tension, which leads to grim outcomes, while highlighting Anjali's resulting bravery and maturity."

"Enriched by the author's proximity to the subject matter and access to primary sources. . . Offers a complex narrative and inspires readers to check their privilege to address ongoing injustices."

"A poignant look at India's independence through the eyes of a ten-year-old, AHIMSA is a well crafted tale of resistance."

* "A historical, timely, and informative story that is full of heart."

* "Readers will empathize with this heartbreakingly charming debut about the universal struggle of overcoming fears and biases in order to make the world a better place."

"Sprinkled with action as this story is, it is also packed with a wealth of interesting information and teachers and librarians will find much in this book to spur thoughtful discussions. Readers are also sure to discover parallels between the desegregation of schools in our nation and the attempt to integrate lower-caste children into the Indian education system. . . . A welcome addition to the growing body of South Asian literature for children in the United States."