What Happens When Children’s Books Talk About Caste?
Some say, “Here is caste. Let me explain it.” A few others say, “Here is a person who fought caste.” Far fewer say, “Here is a child living within a caste society.” The recently released Duckbill imprint BLUE , written by Devashish Makhija and illustrated by Satwik Gade, takes the latter route, allowing young readers to encounter caste through story rather than instruction. The picture book, part…
Recent children's book BLUE, written by Devashish Makhija and illustrated by Satwik Gade, introduces young readers to the concept of caste through storytelling. Unlike other books that may explain or critique caste, BLUE allows children to experience caste within a story, making it visible without turning the book into a lesson.
The illustrations by Gade focus on emotions such as wonder, curiosity, and doubt, rather than providing clear explanations. This approach allows children to engage with the concept of caste without being asked to define it.
Picture books like BLUE are just one example of how caste can be represented in children's literature. The graphic novel format, as seen in Bhimayana and A Gardener in the Wasteland, can also be used to depict caste and anti-caste thought in a visually engaging way. However, caste need not be conveyed only through metaphor or graphic experimentation.
Books like My Name is Gulab by Sagar Kolwankar and Turning the Pot, Tilling the Land: Dignity of Labour in Our Times by Kancha Ilaiah use everyday situations to address caste, making it relatable to children.
These books demonstrate that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to discussing caste with children. Each book takes a different path to introducing the concept, whether through questioning, confronting social norms, or highlighting the dignity of labor. By using various literary forms and techniques, these books attempt to make the invisible reality of caste visible to children, fostering awareness and understanding from an early age.
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