Illustrated story books are a powerful way to teach the values and principles of Sikhism to children and adults alike in an enjoyable and engaging medium. Illustrations and stories reach across cultural, gender and generation boundaries to open avenues of dialogue between parents and children as well as teachers and students promoting discussion and exploration. You won't want to be without these must have books in your home and school libraries.
"My First Sikh Books" by Parveen Kaur Dhillon
Photo © S Khalsa
"A Lion's Mane" by Navjot Kaur Illustrated by Jaspreet Sandhu
Photo © [Courtesy Saffron Press]
"I have a lion's mane and I am different, just like you. Do you know who I am?" sets the tone for Navjot Kaur's charming and colorful comparison of cultures, A Lion's Mane. Follow the winding red dastar (turban) on a journey through time and place to discover the qualities deeply inherent in "what what covers my mane." Children of all colors and walks of life depicted by Jaspreet Sandhu's animated illustrations provide an opportunity for self appreciation while presenting tools for building bridges between communities and reminding kids that despite their differences, they are all pretty much the same. Offered by Saffron Press, Printed & Bound in Canada by Green Printer Ltd, 2009, ISBN 978-0-9812412-0-3.
"Dear Takuya (Letters of a Sikh Boy)" by Jessi Kaur
Photo © [Courtesy IIGS Inc.]
Endearing letters of a young Sikh boy written to his Japanese pen pal, Takuya, provide the ambiance for Jessi Kaur's delightful presentation of Sikhism from the perspective of a child in Dear Takuya. The high quality of flawless writing and Brian Johnston’s eye catching illustrations are an unbeatable combination in this delightful and heartwarming story offering glimpes of Sikh life. Educational as well as entertaining, its universal appeal makes Dear Takuya a must have for all home and school libraries around the world that you won't want to be without. Offered by International Institue of Gurmat Studies, printed by Sir Speedy Printing, Tustin, CA USA, 2008, ISBN 978-0-615-20852-7.
"The Royal Falcon" by Jessi Kaur
Photo © [Courtesy IIGS Inc.]
From the modern day school room setting to the ancient court of the Guru, your imagination will soar when you fly with Guru Gobind Singh's falcon Khushi, in Jessi Kaur's The Royal Falcon. His interaction with the imaginary falcon encourages Arjan to grapple with tough questions of ethics, apply what he learns to his situation, and arrive at a positive resolution to his dilemma. Be prepared to confront the directives of your own inner avenues as you journey with Khushi to navigate a Sikh boy Ajran,'s, subconscious while he struggles to do the right thing in the wrong situation. Offered by International Institue of Gurmat Studies, printed by Sir Speedy Printing, Tustin, CA USA, 2008, ISBN 978-1-61658-155-8
"Journey With the Gurus" (Vol 1) by Inni Kaur
Photo © [Courtesy Inni Kaur and Pardeep Singh]
Step into the world of Guru Nanak with Inni Kaur's charming narrative Journey With the Gurus (Volume One) to guide you and Pardeep Singh's illuminating illustrations to light your way. Embossed satin pages framed with golden etching transport you into a sublime portal featuring brother Nanak and sister Nanaki. This timeless tale told through children's voices, challenges ritual and inspires serenity. Nanak and Nanaki mature into adulthood gently probing the boundaries of the divine. Their unique relationship with integrity ultimately sparks an ongoing quest for truth prompting Guru Nanak's travels into light. Offered by Sikh Education & Cultural Foundation, Inc, Norwalk, CT, 2010, ISBN: 978-0-9812412.
Top Comic Books Featuring Sikh Heroes and Martyrs
Photo © [S Khalsa]
Amazing artwork coupled with authentic tales told in flawless English come together to illustrate Sikh history's illustrious gurus and martyrs on the glossy pages of 2011 releases by Sikh Comics. Everyone in the family will want to read these comic books:
- Guru Tegh Bahadur the Ninth Sikh Guru by Sikh Comics: Review
- Baba Deep Singh The Great Sikh Martyr and Scholar by Sikh Comics: Review
DIY Baby's First Prayerbook With Sikhism Theme Illustrated Instructions
Photo © [S Khalsa]
A baby prayerbook with Sikhism themes is a great way to introduce your infant or toddler to a hands on experience of learning about Sikhism. Looking at the prayerbook regularly helps to prepare baby for reading Nitnem, required prayers, in later life. As baby grows and learns to recognize Sikhism symbols, he or she will enjoy looking at the prayerbook quietly during services with siblings or other youngsters. Easy to make even if you are new to sewing. Baby is new to the world and will love this prayerbook that you make yourself.
