The illustrations show pure love, care, respect, and support towards the ambitions of others. It breaks the stereotype of males not helping in the household, or males who are less sensitive than females. This also challenges the word ‘male ego’. In some societies, it is notional for women after a certain age to not pursue higher education
Niveditha’s limited palette illustrations selectively highlight the elements that need readers’ attention. This complements the narrative, makes it easier to follow and make sense of. Illustrations are revered as a key component in early literacy.
My Little Book of Diwali the board book opens up with colourful and joyous preparations that include diyas, new clothes, flower decorations—each creating a happy moment for the kindergarten readers.
In all these stories, the tiger plays an important role— a cub aspiring to be a man-eater in Ranjit Lal’s ‘I want to be a Man-eater’, to a ferocious tiger stuck in a typhoon in a cattle eater’s paradise in ‘Tiger in a Typhoon’ by Hugh Allen; Prathibha Nandakumar’s mighty Tigress brings out her claw when asked a question and goes on to scratch her head! Protective Padmini who charges at the wildlife photographer in Valmik Thapar’s story is sure to give shivers down your spine
The board of each page is skilfully designed to present smooth little pieces moving in and out of slits. Some pieces are elegantly pulled up from the slits; some pieces are effortlessly slid round and round and round in their slits
Names and illustrations of various animals have been used just to increase the fun element. If one reads the poem with the expectation of teaching children about animals or that it will contain some researched scientific facts or information