52 pages • 1 hour read
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308
Novel • Fiction
India • 1940s
2017
Middle grade
9-12 years
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
1,587 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
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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.
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.
1,587 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Shailaja Joshi
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.
Chachaji
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.
Baba Joshi
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.
Mohan
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.
Keshavji Parmar
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.
Masterji
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.
308
Novel • Fiction
India • 1940s
2017
Middle grade
9-12 years
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