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Krishna Deva Raya: King of Kings [Flexibound] Pai, Roop
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
August 10, 2025
'His name,' she said, 'was Krishna Deva Raya, King of Kings.'
I was born and raised in Karnataka, India. Every time my history textbook spoke about Karnataka's history and culture, I would squeal with excitement. Krishna Deva Raya's chapter was one of my favorites, and Hampi is glorious. The author has spoken about the King's greatness, why he is called the King of Kings, Hakka and Bukka (the pioneers), the king's family, and everything revolving around Hampi.
I wish I had access to such books while I was growing up to understand history in an interesting way rather than read it as a non-fiction content (textbook). Man, kids these days are lucky!
I am always first in line when it comes to Roopa Pai's books. The reason is that she is a perfectionist. Her book Becoming Bangalore is a perfect example. Whatever she writes is full of precision. Not just that, she always manages to get the best illustrators for her books. Archana Sreenivasan has created conspicuous illustrations.
I was born and raised in Karnataka, India. Every time my history textbook spoke about Karnataka's history and culture, I would squeal with excitement. Krishna Deva Raya's chapter was one of my favorites, and Hampi is glorious. The author has spoken about the King's greatness, why he is called the King of Kings, Hakka and Bukka (the pioneers), the king's family, and everything revolving around Hampi.
I wish I had access to such books while I was growing up to understand history in an interesting way rather than read it as a non-fiction content (textbook). Man, kids these days are lucky!
I am always first in line when it comes to Roopa Pai's books. The reason is that she is a perfectionist. Her book Becoming Bangalore is a perfect example. Whatever she writes is full of precision. Not just that, she always manages to get the best illustrators for her books. Archana Sreenivasan has created conspicuous illustrations.
August 4, 2025
Krishna Deva Raya by Roopa Pai, illustrated by Archana Sreenivasan
It’s the year, 1570 and two princesses are sitting together to watch the sunset. One is a proud storyteller of tales from her past and the other a stubborn girl who listens to every word with great enthusiasm. I don’t think we need anything else to make a great book, maybe in case, gorgeous illustrations to bring it all to life. The Pai and Sreenivasan duo made reading history fun for me, it’s a children’s book no doubt but really anyone can read it and it will be as much fun. The famous king of the kingdom of Vijayanagara, stories of which shaped our childhood comics and cartoons was called Krishnadeva Raya. He was known as a strong and benevolent king. He might or might not have had a daughter but the author imagined one and also a great grand-daughter who pay homage to him through their conversations and reminiscing. An adorable way to learn about the cultural legacy, architecture, culinary style and numerous facets of life of the people from the age and also the king’s personal victories and folly, this book is a great addition to my illustrated books collection. If you love a regal book on your shelf, pick this one up!
Tender and fascinating, it joins past and present in such a positive manner. A child learns about history without her wishes and questions being trampled upon. She cherishes her freedom and happiness whilst being proud that her great grandfather once ruled a sprawling and bounteous kingdom with benevolence, bravery and kindness.
Thank you so much @hachette for the advanced review copy!
It’s the year, 1570 and two princesses are sitting together to watch the sunset. One is a proud storyteller of tales from her past and the other a stubborn girl who listens to every word with great enthusiasm. I don’t think we need anything else to make a great book, maybe in case, gorgeous illustrations to bring it all to life. The Pai and Sreenivasan duo made reading history fun for me, it’s a children’s book no doubt but really anyone can read it and it will be as much fun. The famous king of the kingdom of Vijayanagara, stories of which shaped our childhood comics and cartoons was called Krishnadeva Raya. He was known as a strong and benevolent king. He might or might not have had a daughter but the author imagined one and also a great grand-daughter who pay homage to him through their conversations and reminiscing. An adorable way to learn about the cultural legacy, architecture, culinary style and numerous facets of life of the people from the age and also the king’s personal victories and folly, this book is a great addition to my illustrated books collection. If you love a regal book on your shelf, pick this one up!
Tender and fascinating, it joins past and present in such a positive manner. A child learns about history without her wishes and questions being trampled upon. She cherishes her freedom and happiness whilst being proud that her great grandfather once ruled a sprawling and bounteous kingdom with benevolence, bravery and kindness.
Thank you so much @hachette for the advanced review copy!
August 5, 2025
Roopa Pai's Krishna Deva Raya is more than a history book; it's a vibrant, imaginative tribute to one of India's most iconic rulers, written in a playful, conversational style that vividly recreates 16th-century Vijayanagara for young readers.
One of the most striking aspects of this narrative is its unique voice, which presents history not as a dry timeline, but through fictionalized conversations between the king, his daughter, and great-granddaughter, creating a multi-layered storytelling experience that feels intimate and personal, like sharing royal family secrets around a campfire.
Archana Sreenivasan's lush illustrations, inspired by temple art from Hampi and Lepakshi, are a major part of the book's allure, transforming each image into an immersive experience that transports readers to the vibrant courtyards and bustling streets of a bygone empire.
Pai skillfully blends entertainment and education, incorporating historical facts, cultural traditions, festivals, and food in a way that never feels like a textbook. A map and timeline serve to further ground the story in real-world history.
This book is a must-read for inquisitive young minds and adults alike, bringing history to life as a vibrant and relatable story, proving that learning about the past can be enjoyable, motivational, and profoundly human.
One of the most striking aspects of this narrative is its unique voice, which presents history not as a dry timeline, but through fictionalized conversations between the king, his daughter, and great-granddaughter, creating a multi-layered storytelling experience that feels intimate and personal, like sharing royal family secrets around a campfire.
Archana Sreenivasan's lush illustrations, inspired by temple art from Hampi and Lepakshi, are a major part of the book's allure, transforming each image into an immersive experience that transports readers to the vibrant courtyards and bustling streets of a bygone empire.
Pai skillfully blends entertainment and education, incorporating historical facts, cultural traditions, festivals, and food in a way that never feels like a textbook. A map and timeline serve to further ground the story in real-world history.
This book is a must-read for inquisitive young minds and adults alike, bringing history to life as a vibrant and relatable story, proving that learning about the past can be enjoyable, motivational, and profoundly human.
November 26, 2025
Have you ever been to Hampi?? If not, then get ready to travel alongside two princesses, a grandmother and her curious grandchild as they travel through time through stories, taste the flavours and experience the culture of the great place.
Krishna Deva Raya-King of Kings by Roopa Pai takes you on a journey back in time to the land of Hampi, where history, food and culture come alive in the most delightful way.
This book is a great introduction to the history, tradition, cuisine and architecture of Hampi. If Roopa Rai ever decides to make this into a series exploring different places and their history through storytelling, I would definitely be up to read every single book.
In this book, the storytelling shines with stunning illustrations and designs. I am in love with the illustrations and the colour palette used for the book, it makes the book look both fun and regal at the same time.
My favourite part in the book is the introduction of the king himself and how he comes to narrate his point of view every now and then.
This is a warm and engaging story that is going to be loved by both children and adults alike.
Krishna Deva Raya-King of Kings by Roopa Pai takes you on a journey back in time to the land of Hampi, where history, food and culture come alive in the most delightful way.
This book is a great introduction to the history, tradition, cuisine and architecture of Hampi. If Roopa Rai ever decides to make this into a series exploring different places and their history through storytelling, I would definitely be up to read every single book.
In this book, the storytelling shines with stunning illustrations and designs. I am in love with the illustrations and the colour palette used for the book, it makes the book look both fun and regal at the same time.
My favourite part in the book is the introduction of the king himself and how he comes to narrate his point of view every now and then.
This is a warm and engaging story that is going to be loved by both children and adults alike.
August 12, 2025
My latest read, "Krishna Deva Raya – King of Kings", is a wonderful illustrated book that presents the history of Vijayanagara (modern-day Hampi) in the form of a tale told by a grandmother to her granddaughter.
Through the story, the author sheds light on many lesser-known facts about Hampi — how it got its name, the rise of Krishna Deva Raya, and how the civilization flourished during his reign.
It’s a vibrant illustrated narrative, beautifully put together, which captivated not only me but also my daughter.
I loved many things about this book, such as the color scheme used in the illustrations and the way the story was presented in a jovial, engaging manner.
The book is designed in such a way that it instantly catches the eye, and it’s a short read that can be finished in just a few hours.
My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to every parent who wants to introduce their little ones — and themselves — to the history of Hampi in a fun and engaging way
Through the story, the author sheds light on many lesser-known facts about Hampi — how it got its name, the rise of Krishna Deva Raya, and how the civilization flourished during his reign.
It’s a vibrant illustrated narrative, beautifully put together, which captivated not only me but also my daughter.
I loved many things about this book, such as the color scheme used in the illustrations and the way the story was presented in a jovial, engaging manner.
The book is designed in such a way that it instantly catches the eye, and it’s a short read that can be finished in just a few hours.
My daughter and I thoroughly enjoyed it, and I would wholeheartedly recommend it to every parent who wants to introduce their little ones — and themselves — to the history of Hampi in a fun and engaging way
August 16, 2022
" Krishna Deva Reya : The Boy Who Would Be King " - Abhijeeth Hiliyana
Krishna Deva Reya by Abhijeeth Hiliyana is a historical book about one of the greatest king of India. The timeline of the book is set in the 14th century. At that time the empire of Vijayanagara was the greatest empire and was ruled by Krishna Deva Reya, of the tuluva dynasty.
This was a great opportunity for me to read and know about Indian history and also about one of the great rulers of India. The writing was very well written and nicely paced, if you like reading historical stories then this definitely a book to read.
Krishna Deva Reya by Abhijeeth Hiliyana is a historical book about one of the greatest king of India. The timeline of the book is set in the 14th century. At that time the empire of Vijayanagara was the greatest empire and was ruled by Krishna Deva Reya, of the tuluva dynasty.
This was a great opportunity for me to read and know about Indian history and also about one of the great rulers of India. The writing was very well written and nicely paced, if you like reading historical stories then this definitely a book to read.
November 20, 2019
Overtly dramatic
August 13, 2018
This book that I read recently - Krishna Deva Raya- written by Roopa Pai is a wonderful narration of the events that happened in the Vijayanagara Empire. It is a beautiful narrative - easy for children to understand. For all those who love Indian history this book is a must read. I also recommend you to read it before your trip to Hampi (or perhaps after) or just for the fun of it.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews