Engaging young readers in rural Nepal with original, interactive storytelling that entertains, educates, and connects with their cultural heritage
Celebrating our highlights of 2024:
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Published 3 new original children’s books
Our 4x4 bookmobile delivered them to dozens of our partner schools in the Kathmandu Valley. -
Sponsored a children's literature festival, attracting
over 150 students and parents
They gathered to make kites and puppets, create art inspired by our books, and of course, listen to stories read aloud. -
Conducted workshops for writers and illustrators
We frequently bring artists together to learn about the process of creating culturally relevant and engaging stories. -
Placed our books for sale at retail shops
All 6 of our books are now available at 3 different Kathmandu bookstores.
In Their Own Words: Our Children's Literature Festival
The event earlier this year in Shivapuri rural municipality brought artists together with educators, parents, and students from 3 different local schools for book-based crafts and activities.
Sangita Lama, 4th grade teacher "The dramatization workshops were a highlight for me. They provided valuable techniques for bringing stories to life in the classroom. I left the workshops with new strategies that I am eager to implement with my students to make literature more engaging and interactive."
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Rina Tamang, Grandma "I was thrilled to attend the festival with my grandchildren. They enjoyed designing and creating their own puppets. I also made a caterpillar puppet with a little help from Miss Monita." |
Shuvam Joshi, 6th grader "Making the kite was my favorite part. I cannot wait for Dashain, so I can make my own kite." |
We continue to collaborate with Nepali artists and writers ...
An illustration workshop brought together eight graduates from Kathmandu University’s art and design program to reimagine scenes from a popular children’s book by a Nepali author. A separate session encouraged writers to draw inspiration from personal experiences and community tales to develop their own stories.
... as well as librarians, teachers and book distributors
Some of those workshop participants also attended a book launch event this fall hosted by Kakshyalaya, our partner organization in Nepal, to introduce our 3 new books—"Dashain," "Mandir," and "Daraz." Their authors and illustrators discussed the inspirations behind their work to members of the literary community.
 | "This book launch is the realization of a dream I've nurtured for years. It marks a milestone for Kakshyalaya and Santi School, bringing culturally rich stories to life. I've always believed in the power of literature to shape young minds and strengthen their identity. Today, as I see children holding these books with joy and curiosity, I'm reminded why we embarked on this journey – to ignite imaginations and ensure our heritage thrives in every story. This moment represents both a proud achievement and the start of even greater possibilities." Niranjan Narsingh Khatri Executive Director, Kakshyalaya/Santi School (pictured here with "Dashain" illustrator Rajani Gajmer) |  |
Help us continue to create quality children's literature that entertains, educates, and connects Nepali children to their roots. Support our next stories reflecting the nation's diverse culture.
