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Grandpa’s Bag of Stories | An illustrated collection of timeless tales from India’s favourite storyteller, perfect for read along | Ages 8 and up
Join Anoushka, Krishna, Meenu and Raghu along with Ajja-Ajji on their adventure to Mayawati, a beautiful hilly region in Uttarakhand. Little do they know their trip will be filled with unexpected magic as, this time, their dear Ajja becomes their new storyteller. Amidst snow-capped mountains and towering deodar trees, Ajja weaves tales of kings and princesses, mermaids and bitter gourds, imparting wisdom and compassion along the way.
As the children explore the mountains, they make new friends, learn about Pahadi folk traditions, marvel at breathtaking sunsets and travel to various destinations.
From the bestselling author of Grandma’s Bag of Stories and Grandparents’ Bag of Stories, Sudha Murty, comes another collection of immersive, captivating and sensorial tales with an exciting new twist!
As the children explore the mountains, they make new friends, learn about Pahadi folk traditions, marvel at breathtaking sunsets and travel to various destinations.
From the bestselling author of Grandma’s Bag of Stories and Grandparents’ Bag of Stories, Sudha Murty, comes another collection of immersive, captivating and sensorial tales with an exciting new twist!
224 pages, Paperback
Published November 19, 2024
25 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
About the author
Sudha Murty
184 books2,999 followersSudha Murty was born in 1950 in Shiggaon in north Karnataka. She did her MTech in computer science, and is now the chairperson of the Infosys Foundation. A prolific writer in English and Kannada, she has written nine novels, four technical books, three travelogues, one collection of short stories, three collections of non-fiction pieces and two books for children.
Her books have been translated into all the major Indian languages and have sold over three lakh copies around the country. She was the recipient of the R.K. Narayan's Award for Literature and the Padma Shri in 2006.
Her books have been translated into all the major Indian languages and have sold over three lakh copies around the country. She was the recipient of the R.K. Narayan's Award for Literature and the Padma Shri in 2006.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
August 16, 2024
Full review on my blog:
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2024/08/bo...
Ajja and Ajji are planning to visit Mayawati, a hill station in Uttarakhand, to visit Ajji’s brother Shyam Ajja who volunteered at a local hospital in Mayawati for four months every year. Coincidentally their grandchildren got school holidays suddenly around the same time and hence Ajja and Ajji decided to take Raghu, Meenu, Krishna and Anoushka to Mayawati. Ajja, Ajji and their four grandchildren met Kukri who is the driver for Shyam Ajja and Kukri’s wife Kusum.
From the beginning of their journey, Ajja started narrating stories to the kids to keep them entertained and engaged; stories that are apt for the scenario the kids were experiencing but also stories that are filled with subtle message that need to be ingrained into young minds. Along with Ajja, Shyam Ajja, Ajji, Kukri and Kusum also joined in narrating beautiful stories to the kids.
There are a total of eighteen stories and the stories range from imaginary fairy tales set in the past to those set in recent times. About the King who wanted to help the gardener with watermelons, how bitter gourds got their bitter taste, why the moon looked like it had a rabbit embedded in it or may be a deer is inside it, the miser who ultimately wished he donated than be penalized for his greed for money, the ambitious son who tried spending away his money to inherit his father’s fortune — each of these eighteen stories are gems.
My favorite is the story of addiction where a Sanyasi becomes a common man’s obsession, which is synonymous to how we are addicted to smartphones, internet and social media. Each story is accompanied by interesting illustrations that portray the story well.
The book also takes the reader through the beautiful landscapes of Mayawati and the surrounding areas, highlighting the many unexplored hidden tourist attractions that India has. The book also showcases the Pahadi way of life — how farming is done in such hilly terrain, the rituals followed for marriages.
Highly recommend this book for kids as well as adults for the message that it delivers as well as the virtual tour it provides of Mayawati and the surroundings.
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2024/08/bo...
Ajja and Ajji are planning to visit Mayawati, a hill station in Uttarakhand, to visit Ajji’s brother Shyam Ajja who volunteered at a local hospital in Mayawati for four months every year. Coincidentally their grandchildren got school holidays suddenly around the same time and hence Ajja and Ajji decided to take Raghu, Meenu, Krishna and Anoushka to Mayawati. Ajja, Ajji and their four grandchildren met Kukri who is the driver for Shyam Ajja and Kukri’s wife Kusum.
From the beginning of their journey, Ajja started narrating stories to the kids to keep them entertained and engaged; stories that are apt for the scenario the kids were experiencing but also stories that are filled with subtle message that need to be ingrained into young minds. Along with Ajja, Shyam Ajja, Ajji, Kukri and Kusum also joined in narrating beautiful stories to the kids.
There are a total of eighteen stories and the stories range from imaginary fairy tales set in the past to those set in recent times. About the King who wanted to help the gardener with watermelons, how bitter gourds got their bitter taste, why the moon looked like it had a rabbit embedded in it or may be a deer is inside it, the miser who ultimately wished he donated than be penalized for his greed for money, the ambitious son who tried spending away his money to inherit his father’s fortune — each of these eighteen stories are gems.
My favorite is the story of addiction where a Sanyasi becomes a common man’s obsession, which is synonymous to how we are addicted to smartphones, internet and social media. Each story is accompanied by interesting illustrations that portray the story well.
The book also takes the reader through the beautiful landscapes of Mayawati and the surrounding areas, highlighting the many unexplored hidden tourist attractions that India has. The book also showcases the Pahadi way of life — how farming is done in such hilly terrain, the rituals followed for marriages.
Highly recommend this book for kids as well as adults for the message that it delivers as well as the virtual tour it provides of Mayawati and the surroundings.
September 12, 2024
review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2024/0...
Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is a collection of stories within a story, beginning with Ajja and Ajji (Grandpa and Grandma) planning a vacation to visit Ajji’s brother in Mayawati, Uttarakhand. Just a week before their trip, their son and daughter ask them to take their grandchildren along, turning a trip planned for two into an adventure for six.
And so, their storytelling journey begins. The grandchildren, who love stories, are kept entertained throughout the trip—whether waiting at the airport, traveling through the hills, or staying in a place far different from the city, where their usual activities aren’t available. The stories not only keep them occupied but also provide plenty of food for thought.
Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is a follow-up to Grandma’s Bag of Stories, which I hope to read soon. However, it can be enjoyed independently as well. The writing is fast paced, vivid, and engaging, offering not just a collection of stories but also beautiful descriptions of Mayawati, Bhimtal, Lohaghat, and other areas nearby. Author also give a glimpse on the lifestyle of the Pahadis (people who live in the region), how farming is done in such hilly region, and their food.
Each chapter has two sections: the first describes their current experiences and how they spend their time in Mayawati, setting the scene for the second section, which introduces a story filled with valuable messages for both their grandchildren and readers. Each story and chapter is accompanied by a beautifully drawn black-and-white illustration that brings the narrative to life.
All 19 stories are well-written and impart valuable lessons, covering themes such as kindness, generosity, the importance of sibling bonds, learning from opportunities, the consequences of obsession and rumors, the need to correct children when necessary, the true meaning of immortality, taking right and honest path, and the power of unity.
It’s hard to pick a favorite, but here are the stories that will stay with me for a long time—
The Bitter Gourd
The Peepal Tree
Jalebi Teaches a Lesson
The Fruit of Immortality
The Royal Astrologer
Too Much is Too Bad
Overall, Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is fast-paced, beautifully engaging collection of stories filled with morals that parents and grandparents will love sharing with their children of age 8 or more.
Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is a collection of stories within a story, beginning with Ajja and Ajji (Grandpa and Grandma) planning a vacation to visit Ajji’s brother in Mayawati, Uttarakhand. Just a week before their trip, their son and daughter ask them to take their grandchildren along, turning a trip planned for two into an adventure for six.
And so, their storytelling journey begins. The grandchildren, who love stories, are kept entertained throughout the trip—whether waiting at the airport, traveling through the hills, or staying in a place far different from the city, where their usual activities aren’t available. The stories not only keep them occupied but also provide plenty of food for thought.
Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is a follow-up to Grandma’s Bag of Stories, which I hope to read soon. However, it can be enjoyed independently as well. The writing is fast paced, vivid, and engaging, offering not just a collection of stories but also beautiful descriptions of Mayawati, Bhimtal, Lohaghat, and other areas nearby. Author also give a glimpse on the lifestyle of the Pahadis (people who live in the region), how farming is done in such hilly region, and their food.
Each chapter has two sections: the first describes their current experiences and how they spend their time in Mayawati, setting the scene for the second section, which introduces a story filled with valuable messages for both their grandchildren and readers. Each story and chapter is accompanied by a beautifully drawn black-and-white illustration that brings the narrative to life.
All 19 stories are well-written and impart valuable lessons, covering themes such as kindness, generosity, the importance of sibling bonds, learning from opportunities, the consequences of obsession and rumors, the need to correct children when necessary, the true meaning of immortality, taking right and honest path, and the power of unity.
It’s hard to pick a favorite, but here are the stories that will stay with me for a long time—
The Bitter Gourd
The Peepal Tree
Jalebi Teaches a Lesson
The Fruit of Immortality
The Royal Astrologer
Too Much is Too Bad
Overall, Grandpa’s Bag of Stories is fast-paced, beautifully engaging collection of stories filled with morals that parents and grandparents will love sharing with their children of age 8 or more.
September 2, 2024
The best way to connect with children is telling them meaningful stories that help them gain a new perspective on life.
#plot
Ajja and Ajji have planned to visit Mayawati, a hilly region in Uttarakhand. Their grandchildren Anoushka, Krishna, Meenu and Raghu decides to join them. And so their journey begins. When their flight gets delayed Ajja narrates stories to the children. Finally when they reach Mayawati, the children were surprised by the serene beauty and calmness - the snow capped mountains, the roads, tall trees, the rivers and lake. They couldn't believe it was altogether a different world. The children were full of questions regarding the place and Ajja would narrate them a story each time they enquired about a particular thing.
#bookreview
There are 19 stories in this book, each ending with a good moral. And what is great about these stories is they instill values like honesty, kindness, generosity, politeness, humility, respect for all etc. These short stories have a deep meaning and message which shape children to become responsible adults. Such stories help them to learn important lessons in a fun way right from an early age.
The stories in the book are very interesting and engaging. Its a fast paced read and i as an adult thoroughly enjoyed it. The language is easy for children. There are black and white illustrations on some pages. Alongside the stories the children will also get to learn a little about pahadi region. It makes for a good bed time read. Your child can read a story or two every night as there are many stories in this book and they will surely enjoy it.
#plot
Ajja and Ajji have planned to visit Mayawati, a hilly region in Uttarakhand. Their grandchildren Anoushka, Krishna, Meenu and Raghu decides to join them. And so their journey begins. When their flight gets delayed Ajja narrates stories to the children. Finally when they reach Mayawati, the children were surprised by the serene beauty and calmness - the snow capped mountains, the roads, tall trees, the rivers and lake. They couldn't believe it was altogether a different world. The children were full of questions regarding the place and Ajja would narrate them a story each time they enquired about a particular thing.
#bookreview
There are 19 stories in this book, each ending with a good moral. And what is great about these stories is they instill values like honesty, kindness, generosity, politeness, humility, respect for all etc. These short stories have a deep meaning and message which shape children to become responsible adults. Such stories help them to learn important lessons in a fun way right from an early age.
The stories in the book are very interesting and engaging. Its a fast paced read and i as an adult thoroughly enjoyed it. The language is easy for children. There are black and white illustrations on some pages. Alongside the stories the children will also get to learn a little about pahadi region. It makes for a good bed time read. Your child can read a story or two every night as there are many stories in this book and they will surely enjoy it.
October 8, 2024
In Grandpa's Bag of Stories, Sudha Murty takes us on a delightful adventure in the beautiful hills of Mayawati, Uttarakhand. The story follows Anoushka, Krishna, Meenu, and Raghu as they explore the region with their grandfather, Ajja, who becomes their storyteller. Through his tales of kings, princesses, and magical creatures, he shares important lessons about wisdom, kindness and compassion.
As always Sudha Ji's writing shines through her vivid descriptions and the heartwarming stories, yet again proving why she's such a beloved author and why her works are so popular. The book not only entertains but also encourages conversations about family, culture, and the magic of storytelling, as this is a collection of stories within another story!
This heartwarming and adorable book celebrates the joy of sharing stories across generations, much like we all have listened to stories from our grandparents back in our childhood. Nostalgia at its peak! It really made me reminisce about the times my grandma told me extremely funny stories. Though targeted at young readers, this is a book that can be read by anyone and it will turn out to be an enjoyable experience for every reader. Bejeweled with adorable illustrations, this book is a great title to inculcate the habit of reading in young children, ensuring that they're learning some good values all the way.
As always Sudha Ji's writing shines through her vivid descriptions and the heartwarming stories, yet again proving why she's such a beloved author and why her works are so popular. The book not only entertains but also encourages conversations about family, culture, and the magic of storytelling, as this is a collection of stories within another story!
This heartwarming and adorable book celebrates the joy of sharing stories across generations, much like we all have listened to stories from our grandparents back in our childhood. Nostalgia at its peak! It really made me reminisce about the times my grandma told me extremely funny stories. Though targeted at young readers, this is a book that can be read by anyone and it will turn out to be an enjoyable experience for every reader. Bejeweled with adorable illustrations, this book is a great title to inculcate the habit of reading in young children, ensuring that they're learning some good values all the way.
September 1, 2024
Sudha Murty’s new book, *Grandpa’s Bag of Stories*, is yet another one of those anthologies that follows the same kids—Anoushka, Krishna, Meenu, and Raghu—who go to a place in the mountains. This time, they’re in Uttarakhand, which is probably pretty, but it’s also where Ajja starts telling stories. So, there’s that.
The book has the kids exploring the mountains while Ajja talks about kings and princesses, and other stuff like bitter gourds, which seems a bit random, but I guess it’s supposed to mean something. The kids also meet new people and learn some local traditions, which is okay if you’re into that kind of thing. The author tries to make you feel like you’re there, describing the snow and trees and all that, but it can get a bit much. More so because Murthy’s writing is often redundant and plain.
If you’ve read any of Murty’s other books, like *Grandma's Bag of Stories*, you pretty much know what to expect here. It’s more of the same, with a few new bits thrown in. It’s not bad, but it’s not exactly groundbreaking either. If you like Murty’s style, you might like this one too but don’t expect anything particularly fresh or exciting. It’s a book, it has stories, and if you’re into that, you might find it okay.
The book has the kids exploring the mountains while Ajja talks about kings and princesses, and other stuff like bitter gourds, which seems a bit random, but I guess it’s supposed to mean something. The kids also meet new people and learn some local traditions, which is okay if you’re into that kind of thing. The author tries to make you feel like you’re there, describing the snow and trees and all that, but it can get a bit much. More so because Murthy’s writing is often redundant and plain.
If you’ve read any of Murty’s other books, like *Grandma's Bag of Stories*, you pretty much know what to expect here. It’s more of the same, with a few new bits thrown in. It’s not bad, but it’s not exactly groundbreaking either. If you like Murty’s style, you might like this one too but don’t expect anything particularly fresh or exciting. It’s a book, it has stories, and if you’re into that, you might find it okay.
March 9, 2025
It was the second time I read this book, and it was just as amazing as before. I highly recommend it to anyone, and if you are just starting your reading journey, this book is perfect for you. Sudha Murty's writing is simple and easy to understand but is still perfect. If you have read "Grandma's Bag of Stories" and "Grandparents' Bag of Stories" by her, then you would know what this book might be like. But let me tell you this: this time, we are going somewhere else and you'll see where when you read it. And if you haven't read those 2 books that I mentioned before, then what are you waiting for? Go read them now! And I'll link them here for you. Grandma's Bag Of Stories and Grandparents' Bag of Stories
September 24, 2024
Having read most of Sudha Murty's works, including Grandma’s Bag of Stories and Grandparents’ Bag of Stories, I was excited to dive into “Grandpa’s Bag of Stories,” the third installment in this beloved series. This time, we accompany Ajji, Ajja, and their grandkids on a journey to Mayawat, Uttarakhand. Fans of the previous books will know that Ajji has a knack for storytelling, but in this edition, Ajja takes the spotlight, sharing enchanting tales with his grandchildren from the start of their trip to its delightful conclusion.
The book is a collection of stories narrated by Ajja, filled with simplicity and a sprinkle of magic. As I turned each page, I was transported back to those lazy summer afternoons when time seemed to stand still and every moment brimmed with possibility.
Each story in this collection carries a moral, subtly imparting lessons of kindness, honesty, bravery, and wisdom. Tales like "Jalebi Teaches a Lesson" reminded me that even the smallest experiences can teach us the biggest lessons in life. The stories are not just entertaining; they are thought-provoking, making them perfect for shaping young minds. They inspire children to think beyond the obvious, encouraging them to embrace values that will stay with them for life.
Sudha Murty’s storytelling is reminiscent of how our grandparents narrated tales—filled with love, warmth, and a hint of nostalgia. Her ability to create a connection between the reader and the characters is truly commendable. This book is not just for children; it’s for anyone who wants to relive those cherished moments of their childhood.
Grandpa's Bag of Stories is a wonderful tribute to the art of storytelling and the wisdom passed down from one generation to the next. It serves as a reminder that the simplest of stories, told with love, have the power to shape who we are and how we see the world. If you’re looking for a book that offers both nostalgia and life lessons, this is a perfect pick. It’s a journey back to those magical summer breaks, where every story has the power to inspire and mold young minds.
The book is a collection of stories narrated by Ajja, filled with simplicity and a sprinkle of magic. As I turned each page, I was transported back to those lazy summer afternoons when time seemed to stand still and every moment brimmed with possibility.
Each story in this collection carries a moral, subtly imparting lessons of kindness, honesty, bravery, and wisdom. Tales like "Jalebi Teaches a Lesson" reminded me that even the smallest experiences can teach us the biggest lessons in life. The stories are not just entertaining; they are thought-provoking, making them perfect for shaping young minds. They inspire children to think beyond the obvious, encouraging them to embrace values that will stay with them for life.
Sudha Murty’s storytelling is reminiscent of how our grandparents narrated tales—filled with love, warmth, and a hint of nostalgia. Her ability to create a connection between the reader and the characters is truly commendable. This book is not just for children; it’s for anyone who wants to relive those cherished moments of their childhood.
Grandpa's Bag of Stories is a wonderful tribute to the art of storytelling and the wisdom passed down from one generation to the next. It serves as a reminder that the simplest of stories, told with love, have the power to shape who we are and how we see the world. If you’re looking for a book that offers both nostalgia and life lessons, this is a perfect pick. It’s a journey back to those magical summer breaks, where every story has the power to inspire and mold young minds.
September 14, 2024
This book is like a moral science class for children ( I have mentioned this in the most non - condescending way).
It was simple, easy and breezy.
It reminded me of my childhood and my interactions with grandparents.
Overall , an easy and happy read.
It was simple, easy and breezy.
It reminded me of my childhood and my interactions with grandparents.
Overall , an easy and happy read.
October 31, 2024
As always my fav and such a delightful read; I had so much fun with how the story was well connected and everything just flew like that☺️it has been a lovely collection of meaningful stories by Ajja .
January 26, 2025
Simple and nice stories🌟
April 1, 2025
Good book
May 12, 2025
Pretty good, but the usual Sudha Murty magic felt a bit more...dull, in this book.
August 9, 2024
Tales full of wisdom and compassion beautify the pages of this book. A must read for sure!💌🌙
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews