Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar receives praise for its engaging portrayal of India's independence movement and authentic cultural representation. However, some reviews note that the pacing can be slow at times. Overall, readers appreciate its historical depth and strong moral lessons, making it a recommended read for young audiences seeking meaningful narratives.

Readers who would enjoy Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar are typically middle-grade students interested in historical fiction, social justice, and Indian culture. Similar to fans of Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan and A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park, they appreciate stories of young protagonists overcoming adversity in historical settings.

Ahimsa by Supriya Kelkar follows 10-year-old Anjali in 1942 India as her mother joins the freedom movement, advocating for nonviolence. Anjali learns about the caste system, religious differences, and the importance of equality. She faces challenges integrating Dalits into her school and navigating relationships during a time of political unrest and communal violence.

Inspirational / Emotional / Challenging / Hopeful / Heartwarming

- Supriya Kelkar drew inspiration from her own family history when writing Ahimsa, as her great-grandmother participated in the Indian freedom movement, contributing to the authenticity of the novel.
- The novel Ahimsa was Kelkar's debut in the middle-grade fiction category and has received critical acclaim for its historical accuracy and engaging storytelling.
- Ahimsa was recognized as a Notable Book for a Global Society in 2018, highlighting its contribution to multicultural literature in children's education.

**Anjali Joshi**  
A 10-year-old member of the Brahmin caste, Anjali is the protagonist who becomes an advocate for justice and equality, especially for the Dalits, as she navigates the complexities of the freedom movement in India.

**Shailaja Joshi**  
Anjali’s mother, known as "Ma," she is an optimistic woman who learns about her privilege and becomes deeply involved in the freedom movement, striving to make meaningful change for the Dalits.

**Chachaji**  
Baba’s uncle and Anjali’s great uncle, he is a conservative figure who initially opposes the freedom movement and the family’s activism but undergoes some personal growth throughout the story.

**Baba Joshi**  
Anjali’s father, he is a college professor whose calm demeanor and rational perspective provide balance to his family's fervor for the freedom movement, while also respecting the strong women in his life.

**Mohan**  
A Dalit who works for Anjali’s family, Mohan educates Anjali and her Mother on the true needs of the Dalits, challenging their preconceptions and advocating for their self-identification rather than imposed terms.

**Keshavji Parmar**  
A committed Dalit follower of Gandhi, he becomes a key leader in the local freedom movement, inspiring Anjali and also providing historical context within the novel.

**Masterji**  
Anjali’s strict school teacher who is also part of the freedom movement and supports the integration efforts, ultimately aiding in educating Dalit students in the village.

Supriya Kelkar

Middle grade

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Fiction

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