Author : Shyamala Shanmugasundaram
Illustrator : Anthoni Guruz
Soori loves to draw and paint. But where he lives now with his mother is a rundown neighbourhood, unclean, unsafe and completely colourless! He wants to move away, but knows they can’t. He wishes that colours would rain down and brighten the buildings. A few days later, Soori finds himself amidst painters, paint cans and brushes! What’s going on?
Painterly pictures echo real textures in a story about trying to bring colour and hope into a community.
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| Age | 5+ |
| Specifications | 32 pages; 10” x 8.5”; full colour; soft cover |
| ISBN | 978-81-965839-3-4 |
| First Published | 2024 |
| Tags | murals, painting, art, colours, community, hope |
Unwavering optimism of childhood captured perfectly!
(9-10 year olds) immediately connected with Soori (a boy perhaps their age) and felt sorry for him having it so rough - him being displaced from his home, him getting bullied at school, him cutting vada on birthday(What!) This gave me a chance to encourage children to talk about their rough moments. At first they were shy. Sometimes we internalize our struggles as we associate those events with shame or insult. However, the context of Soori’s struggles made it easier for them to talk about it. It was heartwarming. One of the pages in the book opened another fruitful discussion on stereotypes - how people attach certain view point to certain appearance or behaviour. “But nobody believed Soori. His own broken crayons, old shoes and torn khakhi shorts didn’t help.” Such conversations make children aware of their own behaviour. A funny moment in a book came when everyone agreed that Soori’s mother was just like theirs. When mums know they’re not going to do anything about a given ask, their favourite replies are “hmm, soon, ok, later, I’ll think..”The book changed tone from serious to happy when Soori’s wish came true. Kids, love the magic associated with making wishes. When children want something to happen but they don’t have the agency, then wishes become ways to explore possibilities. Kids were thrilled when Soori’s wish came true. And how!! The book ended on a happy note with Soori wishing for something else. And what did most of my kids say to that? - obviously Soori’s next wish will also come true!!! Unwavering optimism of childhood captured perfectly! Storyteller Chanda
Delightful exploration of dreams
The book is a heartwarming story that captures the essence of childhood dreams and the transformative power of art in a community. It highlights the struggles of a poor young schoolboy, Soori, who dreams of making his dull neighbourhood vibrant and famous.The author, Shyamala Shanmugasundaram’s, choice of simple and easy language makes the book accessible to a wide audience, especially younger readers (above 6 years). Her approach enhances the relatability of the story and allows young readers to connect with the character's dreams and aspirations. Her lively descriptions of Soori’s circumstances help build a lucid picture of his surroundings. The longing of the child for another magic to make his community a cleaner and safer place is truly poignant.Colourful illustrations by Anthoni Guruz are an excellent addition, given the theme of the book. His visual elements enhance the reading experience, bringing the story to life and complementing the narrative. Overall, "Painted Walls of Malainagar" is a delightful exploration of dreams and the positive impact of art on a community. The combination of a creative storyline, simple language, and vibrant illustrations is sure to make it an engaging and enjoyable book for young readers.Sreedevi K
A story that celebrates the power of hope, art and community.
My nine year old loved this book because it shows that no dream is ever too big and one should never stop being hopeful.Powerful words by shyamala and captivating pictures by Anthoni Guruz really brings this book about community and art alive! Thank you for the copy Shyamala, we loved it. Niyatee Sharma