The Gita for Children
Book Details
The Gita for Children
Roopa Pai, illus. Sayan Mukherjee. London: The Swift Press, hb, 978 9 35195 012 7, 2022, £14.99, 279pp.
Non fiction, 7+
This book is a secular retelling of the sacred text of Hinduism, The Bhagavad Gita, retold for a 21st-century audience.
It is rich in wisdom, compassionate guidance and spiritual direction that our children’s souls are most likely craving for in this agitated, smartphone-fed world. Originally published in India for an Indian audience, the book has found relevance across continents, largely due to its instructive yet liberating tone on present-day dilemmas. It encourages readers to reformulate the questions they ask themselves, build perspective on their circumstances, and leaves them feeling empowered to make choices and embrace change. Personal soul-searching becomes less of a solitary maze and more of a shared journey spanning thousands of years.
The book begins with a quiz on what the Bhagavad Gita is, its origins, and its structure, followed by an introduction that includes a prayer. The 18 chapters that follow take the reader on an intimate journey through the conversations between Krishna and Prince Arjuna, revealing the Gita’s moral lessons and their relevance to modern culture and self-discipline. In many ways, The Gita for Children serves as a spiritual self-help guide, offering timely wisdom for troubled teenagers or adults—like a friend from afar.
This book is excellent for mature solo readers, a debating club, or families looking to explore its wisdom together, connecting its lessons to a child’s current circumstances. It is also an ideal read for those interested in multiculturalism and religious studies, providing a nurturing appreciation of Hinduism. Roopa Pai’s confident and precise guidance is both explanatory and practical—gently helping readers find calm and the courage to embrace their authentic selves.
In conclusion, I must admit some discomfort in lavishing praise on a book that teaches us not to be swayed by praise or blame. However, I feel compelled to share its value—offering you the chance to discover its timeless wisdom for yourself.
Review by Benjamin West