What do you think?
Rate this book
Kanmani And Co. :Five Friends(and a cat) tackle the world
Welcome to Maaripuram, a lively South Indian village where every day bursts with adventure, laughter, and just a hint of mischief. Here, five friends and a clever cat take on the world in ways only kids can. Meet Kanmani and her gang of unlikely heroes: dramatic Seetha, determined Sreejith, mischievous Palani, and snack-loving Subru. Joining the fray is Varam, the cool cat. Together, they embark on escapades, have fun at school, build recycling robots, rally a football team with a wheelchair-powered goal, or simply brighten up the life of the villagers.
160 pages, Paperback
Published December 15, 2025
2 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
December 30, 2025
This book chronicles the adventures of a group of friends in a cozy village named Maaripuram. Smart Kanmani, dramatic Seetha, snack-loving Subru, strong-willed Sreejith and the unforgettable prankster Palani(with his motley gang of pets bearing names of famous legends), accompanied with a fiesty little cat named Varam have their fair share of adventures, fun and good deeds, providing a delightful narrative to the story.
Simplicity is the essence of the story and it's winning point too. The charm of life in a village, the innocence of children who find happiness in the smallest of things and simple yet deeply impactful life-lessons make this story one unforgettable read. Generous doses of gentle and clean humor make you smile and laugh throughout the book.
Lalitha's narration is simply brilliant. Be it a humorous scene or be it something emotional and poignant, Lalitha delivers to perfection. The book showcases her effortless and brilliant humor. Timely puns, extremely effective use of italics that highlight the subtle humor and brilliant one-liners reflect Lalitha's excellent sense of humor.
In the chaotic world we live in, Kanmani and her friends bring in a breath of fresh air, reminding us of simple pleasures of life. If you wish to relive the magic of childhood friendships, of innocent fun and delightful times spent with family, or with your friends or in the school, then this is THE book for you.
You know you have read a wonderful book when you can't stop reading it, but you don't want it to end either. I hope Kanmani And Co. returns with more adventures and fun. I would definitely love to get a whole series on this!
I will end my review with - this is a book written by Lalitha Ramanathan, and if that isn't a recommendation, then I don't know what is!
Simplicity is the essence of the story and it's winning point too. The charm of life in a village, the innocence of children who find happiness in the smallest of things and simple yet deeply impactful life-lessons make this story one unforgettable read. Generous doses of gentle and clean humor make you smile and laugh throughout the book.
Lalitha's narration is simply brilliant. Be it a humorous scene or be it something emotional and poignant, Lalitha delivers to perfection. The book showcases her effortless and brilliant humor. Timely puns, extremely effective use of italics that highlight the subtle humor and brilliant one-liners reflect Lalitha's excellent sense of humor.
In the chaotic world we live in, Kanmani and her friends bring in a breath of fresh air, reminding us of simple pleasures of life. If you wish to relive the magic of childhood friendships, of innocent fun and delightful times spent with family, or with your friends or in the school, then this is THE book for you.
You know you have read a wonderful book when you can't stop reading it, but you don't want it to end either. I hope Kanmani And Co. returns with more adventures and fun. I would definitely love to get a whole series on this!
I will end my review with - this is a book written by Lalitha Ramanathan, and if that isn't a recommendation, then I don't know what is!
January 25, 2026
I picked up Kanmani and Co. by @author_lalitha expecting a light, fun children’s read. What I didn’t expect was to pause so often, smiling, nodding, and quietly unlearning things I didn’t realise I still carried.
Set in the warm, bustling village of Maaripuram, the story follows Kanmani and her friends proudly called"The Fabulous Four" as they stumble through adventures powered by curiosity, teamwork, and a lot of heart. Seetha is dramatic and outspoken, Palani mischievous, Subru deeply compassionate, and Sreejith determined. Together, they play and solve problems especially moments where the children come together to help Sreejith play football using a wheelchair-powered goal. What I loved here is how naturally teamwork flows ,each child contributing, adjusting, and celebrating their win together.
Varam, the coal-black kitten with striking green eyes, adds a beautiful layer to the story. It gently dismantles superstition through empathy. When fear, rumours, and old beliefs surface, it is the children especially Kanmani who respond with kindness instead of panic. Varam slowly becomes a symbol of innocence and good fortune.
One of the most touching arcs is Sreejith’s appa. Watching an adult soften, question his assumptions, and eventually learn from the children felt deeply real. This book quietly tells us that growth isn’t age-bound ,sometimes, adults need to listen more.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
💛 Highly recommended for children, parents, teachers, and anyone who believes stories can gently change the way we see the world.
This book doesn’t preach. It shows. And that’s its magic. ✨
Set in the warm, bustling village of Maaripuram, the story follows Kanmani and her friends proudly called"The Fabulous Four" as they stumble through adventures powered by curiosity, teamwork, and a lot of heart. Seetha is dramatic and outspoken, Palani mischievous, Subru deeply compassionate, and Sreejith determined. Together, they play and solve problems especially moments where the children come together to help Sreejith play football using a wheelchair-powered goal. What I loved here is how naturally teamwork flows ,each child contributing, adjusting, and celebrating their win together.
Varam, the coal-black kitten with striking green eyes, adds a beautiful layer to the story. It gently dismantles superstition through empathy. When fear, rumours, and old beliefs surface, it is the children especially Kanmani who respond with kindness instead of panic. Varam slowly becomes a symbol of innocence and good fortune.
One of the most touching arcs is Sreejith’s appa. Watching an adult soften, question his assumptions, and eventually learn from the children felt deeply real. This book quietly tells us that growth isn’t age-bound ,sometimes, adults need to listen more.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
💛 Highly recommended for children, parents, teachers, and anyone who believes stories can gently change the way we see the world.
This book doesn’t preach. It shows. And that’s its magic. ✨
January 6, 2026
Kanmani and Co. is a joyful, heartwarming celebration of childhood, friendship, and small-town adventures. Set in the lively village of Maaripuram, the book instantly pulls you into a world filled with laughter, mischief, and warmth. It captures the spirit of growing up where every day feels like a new discovery and every problem can be solved with imagination and teamwork.
Kanmani and her friends are wonderfully distinct and relatable. Each child brings their own quirks, strengths, and chaos to the group, making their adventures feel authentic and endearing. From clever problem-solving to playful escapades, the story highlights the beauty of collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity in a way that feels natural and engaging for young readers.
What truly elevates this book is its beautiful illustrations. They add so much charm and personality to the story, bringing Maaripuram and its characters vividly to life. Every page feels inviting, colourful, and full of movement.
Overall, Kanmani and Co. is a delightful read that celebrates messy, magical childhoods. It’s perfect for young readers and adults who enjoy stories filled with heart, humour, and nostalgia.
Kanmani and her friends are wonderfully distinct and relatable. Each child brings their own quirks, strengths, and chaos to the group, making their adventures feel authentic and endearing. From clever problem-solving to playful escapades, the story highlights the beauty of collaboration, empathy, and inclusivity in a way that feels natural and engaging for young readers.
What truly elevates this book is its beautiful illustrations. They add so much charm and personality to the story, bringing Maaripuram and its characters vividly to life. Every page feels inviting, colourful, and full of movement.
Overall, Kanmani and Co. is a delightful read that celebrates messy, magical childhoods. It’s perfect for young readers and adults who enjoy stories filled with heart, humour, and nostalgia.
January 28, 2026
"The world has Batman, while Maaripuram has Catman."
“Kanmani and Co.” is a story set in the village of Maaripuram, where a girl named Kanmani lives with her grandparents. She has a best friend named Seetha.
Along with these two, there are several other memorable characters such as Subru, Palani, Sreejith, and last but not least, Varam.
From time to time, these children solve various kinds of problems, and that is what makes the story engaging and enjoyable.
Through these stories, the author tries to impart valuable life lessons—whether it’s about helping others or walking the righteous path in life.
The book features cute illustrations at places, which add a nostalgic charm and make it a light, cozy read. The stories are written in a way that appeals to readers of all age groups.
Overall, it was a fun read, and for anyone looking for something light and heartwarming, this book is definitely worth a try.
“Kanmani and Co.” is a story set in the village of Maaripuram, where a girl named Kanmani lives with her grandparents. She has a best friend named Seetha.
Along with these two, there are several other memorable characters such as Subru, Palani, Sreejith, and last but not least, Varam.
From time to time, these children solve various kinds of problems, and that is what makes the story engaging and enjoyable.
Through these stories, the author tries to impart valuable life lessons—whether it’s about helping others or walking the righteous path in life.
The book features cute illustrations at places, which add a nostalgic charm and make it a light, cozy read. The stories are written in a way that appeals to readers of all age groups.
Overall, it was a fun read, and for anyone looking for something light and heartwarming, this book is definitely worth a try.
January 4, 2026
Kanmani & Co is one of its kind. Ramanathan spins an enchanting tale—there’s rural charm, innocence and simple pleasures of life. She makes you grin hard and laugh out loud.
You secretly wish you could move to Maaripuram.
The stories are full of chaos, and good-hearted trouble. Kanmani and her crew feel so real you can almost hear them yelling and laughing. The vivid characters leap out from the pages to include you in their wild capers. The humour is spot-on, the adventures are super fun. The cat — well, Varam deserves his own fan club.
Rich and atmospheric—a must read for young readers! An absolutely fantastic read packed with joys of friendship, togetherness and clever life lessons.
You secretly wish you could move to Maaripuram.
The stories are full of chaos, and good-hearted trouble. Kanmani and her crew feel so real you can almost hear them yelling and laughing. The vivid characters leap out from the pages to include you in their wild capers. The humour is spot-on, the adventures are super fun. The cat — well, Varam deserves his own fan club.
Rich and atmospheric—a must read for young readers! An absolutely fantastic read packed with joys of friendship, togetherness and clever life lessons.
January 5, 2026
#natashareviews
Maaripuram brims with imagination and heart. The stories capture the spirited unpredictability of growing up, with schoolyard alliances, big dreams, and ordinary days transformed into unforgettable misadventures. The writing sparkles with cultural detail, humour, and emotional warmth.
A charming, meaningful, and thoroughly engaging read. The villagers seemed so real and warm; it was like watching a serial.
Hoping there is a sequel.
Maaripuram is here to stay!
This review was written by my 13-year-old teenager.
Maaripuram brims with imagination and heart. The stories capture the spirited unpredictability of growing up, with schoolyard alliances, big dreams, and ordinary days transformed into unforgettable misadventures. The writing sparkles with cultural detail, humour, and emotional warmth.
A charming, meaningful, and thoroughly engaging read. The villagers seemed so real and warm; it was like watching a serial.
Hoping there is a sequel.
Maaripuram is here to stay!
This review was written by my 13-year-old teenager.
Read
January 8, 2026Kanmani is an incredibly lovable character, and so are her friends. Each character in the book has their own little quirks (Seetha's over-dramatisation, Subbu's insatiable hunger, Palani's weird pets), yet every one of them feels relatable and easy to like. The story addresses important issues in a subtle yet fun way that children can understand and connect with. The focus is not the issue, but rather the joy in solving them, which makes it perfect for kids.
As I read, I felt like I was truly a part of the village of Maaripuram. The book can be seen as a slice of village life and transports the reader into that world. Gentle humour is beautifully woven throughout the book. Overall, this is a fun, heartwarming, and enjoyable read for both kids and adults alike.
As I read, I felt like I was truly a part of the village of Maaripuram. The book can be seen as a slice of village life and transports the reader into that world. Gentle humour is beautifully woven throughout the book. Overall, this is a fun, heartwarming, and enjoyable read for both kids and adults alike.
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews