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Ahimsa

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017

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Book Brief

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Supriya Kelkar

Ahimsa

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2017
Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 1940s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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Super Short Summary

Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar follows 10-year-old Anjali in 1942 India as her mother joins the freedom movement, advocating for nonviolence. Anjali learns about the caste system, religious differences, and the importance of equality. She faces challenges integrating Dalits into her school and navigating relationships during a time of political unrest and communal violence.

Inspirational

Emotional

Challenging

Hopeful

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

1,587 ratings

79%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar receives praise for its engaging portrayal of India's independence movement and authentic cultural representation. However, some reviews note that the pacing can be slow at times. Overall, readers appreciate its historical depth and strong moral lessons, making it a recommended read for young audiences seeking meaningful narratives.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Ahimsa?

Readers who would enjoy Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar are typically middle-grade students interested in historical fiction, social justice, and Indian culture. Similar to fans of Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan and A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, they appreciate stories of young protagonists overcoming adversity in historical settings.

4.2

1,587 ratings

79%

Loved it

18%

Mixed feelings

3%

Not a fan

Character List

Anjali Joshi

A 10-year-old member of the Brahmin caste, Anjali is the protagonist who becomes an advocate for justice and equality, especially for the Dalits, as she navigates the complexities of the freedom movement in India.

Anjali’s mother, known as "Ma," she is an optimistic woman who learns about her privilege and becomes deeply involved in the freedom movement, striving to make meaningful change for the Dalits.

Baba’s uncle and Anjali’s great uncle, he is a conservative figure who initially opposes the freedom movement and the family’s activism but undergoes some personal growth throughout the story.

Anjali’s father, he is a college professor whose calm demeanor and rational perspective provide balance to his family's fervor for the freedom movement, while also respecting the strong women in his life.

A Dalit who works for Anjali’s family, Mohan educates Anjali and her Mother on the true needs of the Dalits, challenging their preconceptions and advocating for their self-identification rather than imposed terms.

A committed Dalit follower of Gandhi, he becomes a key leader in the local freedom movement, inspiring Anjali and also providing historical context within the novel.

Anjali’s strict school teacher who is also part of the freedom movement and supports the integration efforts, ultimately aiding in educating Dalit students in the village.

Book Details
Pages

308

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

India • 1940s

Publication Year

2017

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

9-12 years

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