Left-Out Paru
Series: HOle Books
MY THOUGHTS
I don’t know about you, but I always thought lefties were so cool! I am right-handed and cannot write at all with my left. But I do know some close friends and family that are left-handed and who have learnt, due to circumstances, to do things with their right hand, making them ambi-dextrous! Both my boys are right-handed as well, so Left-Out Paru made for some interesting discussions.
Paru or Pranali is left-handed and therefore the butt of all jokes in her class. Grade 5 has been tough for her, what with a class reshuffle leaving all her friends in another section. She now shares her desk with Nina, her nemesis, who insists on making life difficult for her. When things get too tough, Paru has to take some tough calls. She decides to use her strongest weapon -words, stand her ground, and challenge Nina to a duel. Will it work out the right, ahem, left way for Paru?
Bijal Vachharajani and Rajiv Eipe (When Fairyland Lost Its Magic, Puppy Trouble) are back with a super cool book and this one is going to be a fast-favourite. First, the concept – interesting, relevant and filled to the brim with relatable events from school. Bijal highlights the true troubles lefties face on a daily basis like difficulty when using scissors, the stigma of paying money with your left hand, and even eating at public events with the left hand. Being the eco-worrier that she is, Bijal also peppers the book with tons of nature facts and trivia making the book interesting. Rajiv Eipe’s illustrations elevate the book and add an extra level of humour. I loved the illustration of Nina as Darth Vader and Miss Cuckoo as a concrete tunnel borer. Of course, his illustrations of people with their various expressions are infinitely exciting.
As always, HOle Books are perfect for readers 7 and above because of how relevant and relatable the stories are for middle grade readers. The illustrations add a break in the narrative, helping the readers finish the book. The stories feature protagonists of the same age as the readers helping them relate to the story.
This is a great book and it belongs on your child’s shelf!
If you think your child would enjoy this book, you can buy it here →
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