Indulekha S. recommends three recently released books, covering English literature, history and culinary skills, for your children’s bookshelves 

I Cook by Shree Periakaruppan
Notion Press (2017)

This book is an excellent way to introduce children to cooking — an important life skill. It features recipes in three categories: drinks, main course and desserts. Authored by Shree Periakaruppan, an IT professional and co-founder of Foodology, a cooking studio in Chennai, the recipes include smoothies, grilled chicken and brownies. Colourfully illustrated, the book is designed to retain the attention of children, with its no-frills layout. Children can try their hand at mixing, stirring, chopping and whipping up homemade goodies for the family. It’s also useful for mothers who want to try easy recipes.
 

What’s so special about Shakespeare? by Michael Rosen
Publisher: Candlewick (2018)

UK-based writer and YouTube star Michael Rosen believes that at this very moment, someone, somewhere in the world, is reading English poet and playwright William Shakespeare (1564-1616), widely regarded as the greatest ever writer of the English language. Generations have grown up reading the Bard’s plays, and future generations also need to experience this literary giant, says Rosen. In this collector’s item specially written for young readers, Rosen explores Shakespeare’s life and times, Elizabethan London, and examines four of the Bard’s plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, King Lear and The Tempest. It’s the perfect way to get children started on a Shakespearean sojourn. The biography is peppered with catchy, humorous illustrations, making it attractive to children. You can buy the book online. 

Discover India by Sonia Mehta
Publisher: Penguin (2017-18)

This new series takes young readers to all of the country’s 29 states and Union territories. Written by Sonia Mehta and published by Penguin India, the series of 29 books feature Pushka and Mishki, accompanied by their wise and witty grandma Daadu Dolma, who traverse the breadth of India. Through song and dance, clothing and architecture, Daadu and gang lead you to the heartbeat of every state. The book includes puzzles, crosswords and dozens of other creative activities. It is a wonderful window to the discovery of India. Author Sonia Mehta is co-founder and chief creative officer of Quadrum Solutions and has been writing children’s books for over 20 years.