Looking for a festive read that is more exciting than another screen session? This Dussehra and Diwali, fill your child’s bookshelf with stories of brave heroes, magical adventures, glowing diyas and unforgettable characters. Festivals are full of stories. From Rama’s journey and Hanuman’s adventures to the return to Ayodhya and the glowing celebrations of Diwali, these tales have been passed down through generations. But children do not have to read a huge ancient epic to enjoy them. There are colourful picture books, comics, graphic novels and modern retellings that bring these stories closer to young readers.
10 Best Dussehra and Diwali Books for Kids to Read This Festive Season
1. Amma, Tell Me About Diwali! by Bhakti Mathur
Age group: 7+
This rhyming picture book introduces children to Diwali through two important stories: Rama’s return to Ayodhya after defeating Ravana and the story of Lakshmi. Bright illustrations and simple storytelling make it an easy festive read.
Why it fits the festive season: It connects both the Dussehra and Diwali stories in one book.
2. Rama and Sita: The Story of Diwali by Malachy Doyle
Age group: 7+
Rama, Sita and Hanuman take centre stage in this colourful retelling of the Ramayana, leading children towards the story behind Diwali. The book also includes factual spreads about the festival, making it useful for curious young readers. Bloomsbury lists it as suitable for ages 6+.
Why it fits the festive season: It takes children from the story of Dussehra to the celebration of Diwali.
3. Lights for Gita by Rachna Gilmore
Age group: 7 to 9 years
Gita is preparing to celebrate Diwali in her new home after moving from New Delhi, but an unexpected storm ruins her plans. As the celebrations change, she discovers that the real meaning of Diwali goes far beyond fireworks.
Why it fits the festive season: A gentle story about finding light, home and meaning even when things do not go as planned.
4. Hanuman’s Ramayana by Devdutt Pattanaik
Age group: 7 to 9 years
What happens when Hanuman tells the Ramayana in his own way? This playful story explores the idea that great stories can have different versions and different storytellers. Devdutt Pattanaik’s retelling uses humour and folk-art-inspired illustrations to make the idea accessible to young readers.
Why it fits the festive season: Hanuman is one of the most memorable characters in the Ramayana, making this a fun companion read for Dussehra.
5. The Story of Jatayu by Aparna Nambiar
Age group: 7+
This graphic-style retelling follows Jatayu, the brave vulture who tries to stop Ravana when Sita is abducted. Told through Jatayu’s journey, it gives children a chance to discover a lesser-known hero from the Ramayana.
Why it fits the festive season: It shows that courage is not always about being the strongest. Sometimes, it is about standing up for what is right.
6. Ramayana: Divine Loophole by Sanjay Patel
Age group: 8+
This visually striking retelling brings the entire Ramayana to life through bold illustrations and a contemporary storytelling style. It follows Rama’s journey while introducing children to the epic’s major characters and turning points. It is officially aimed at ages 8 to 12, though confident readers from 7 can follow it with support.
Why it fits the festive season: For children ready to move from shorter stories into a fuller Ramayana adventure.
7. Valmiki’s Ramayana by Amar Chitra Katha
Age group: 8+
This Amar Chitra Katha comic introduces children to the Ramayana through its traditional epic storyline, including Rama’s journey, dharma and the battle with Ravana. The publisher lists it specifically for readers aged 8 and above.
Why it fits the festive season: It is a natural Dussehra pick for children who enjoy comics and want to explore the original epic tradition in a more accessible format.
8. Stories of Rama by Amar Chitra Katha
Age group: 8+
This five-in-one collection brings together stories including Ancestors of Rama, Dasharatha, Rama, Hanuman and The Sons of Rama. It gives young readers more than one doorway into the world of the Ramayana.
Why it fits the festive season: Instead of stopping at the main Dussehra story, children can explore the characters and stories around Rama too.
9. The Ramayana for Children by Bulbul Sharma
Age group: 8+
This fast-moving retelling brings together adventure, mythology, battles, magical creatures and the journey of Rama, Sita, Lakshmana and Hanuman. Penguin describes it as a lively introduction to the epic, while other book coverage recommends it for readers around 8 and above.
Why it fits the festive season: A good next step for children who are ready for a longer Ramayana read rather than a short picture book.
10. The Girl Who Chose by Devdutt Pattanaik
Age group: 9+
This retelling looks at the Ramayana through Sita’s choices, shifting the focus towards decision-making, responsibility and the power to choose. It gives older children a different perspective on a story they may already know.
Why it fits the festive season: It can turn a familiar Ramayana story into a conversation about choices, courage and responsibility.
More festive reads and stories from The Junior Age
The Junior Age already has several festival-focused resources that can make a great follow-up to these books.
For Dussehra:
- Dussehra: A celebration of victory, with the story and significance behind the festival.
- The story of Dussehra for a deeper look at the legends associated with the festival.
- 10+ best Ramayana storytelling books for children for parents looking for age-friendly reading ideas.
- Fun facts about Dussehra for quick, surprising facts children can share with friends.
For Diwali:
- Everything you need to know about Diwali and its celebration across India
- 10 best Diwali books for children in India.
- Diwali Legends And Stories
- Best 10+ Ramayana Storytelling Books for Children
This festive season, gift a reading habit
A book can make a lovely festive gift. But what if the reading does not stop after one story?
The Junior Age’s Festive Bundles pair a print subscription with educational flash cards, giving children something new to read and explore throughout the year.
- Festive Starter Bundle: 6-month subscription + 2 flash card packs, ₹1,800
- Festive Value Bundle: 6-month subscription + 3 flash card packs, ₹2,100
- Grand Festive Bundle: 1-year subscription + 4 flash card packs, ₹3,100
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