Tales from India: Stories of Creation and the Cosmos

Whitbread Book Award–winner Gavin, who grew up in India, presents 10 classic Hindu stories, accompanied by Hall’s lush and elegant gouache illustrations. The first story describes the origins of the world and the ongoing battle between good and evil. Others relate Lord Vishnu’s creation of the goddess Lakshmi; Lord Shiva’s battle with the gods of darkness, the Asuras; an ark legend centering on Manu, the first man; and the dark story of how Ganesh acquired his elephant’s head. Readers should be drawn toward the valor, action, and dramatic transformations in these powerful tales. Ages 9–up. (Sept.)