Sneha Sharma’s “Grandma in the Stars” is a luminous and poignant exploration of the human experience, blending elements of grief, friendship, and the transcendent power of love with the enchanting allure of the galaxy. 

The story is designed for children, mainly primary schoolers. Its unique selling point lies in its ability to provide a glimpse into Indian village life while celebrating the special bond that children share with their grandparents.

Through the captivating story of Ayesha and her extraordinary journey to the stars, Sharma crafts a narrative that resonates deeply with readers of all ages, inviting them on a transformative odyssey through the vast expanse of the Milky Way. The readers are enchanted by the imagery of the sky filled with stars and imagine to be in there as they flip through the pages of the book.

The story opens with Ayesha, the protagonist, navigating the aftermath of a devastating loss—the passing of her beloved Nani-maa to a pandemic. As Ayesha grapples with the void left by her grandmother’s absence, she finds solace in their cherished moments together and the longing for the familiar comforts of home in Delhi. 

“The large iron gate creaked open, welcoming the two girls to Shreya’s Nani’s old bungalow. Shreya’s Mamaji stood near a beautiful white cow, Leela, who was contentedly chewing her cud in the morning sunlight. As Mamaji spotted the car, he set down the two buckets filled with freshly churned cow’s milk. Ayesha instantly recognized Leela and waved at her as the vehicle was smoothly parked in the cattle shed.”

However, the summer promises to be unlike any other, as Ayesha’s best friend, Shreya, endeavours to lift her spirits with a heartwarming tale of an extraordinary calf named Chatur, born to the white cow Leela, at Shreya’s maternal grandmother’s home in Nashik. Shreya, understanding her friend’s predicament, invites her to visit her hometown in Nashik.

Chatur’s story is a beacon of hope for Ayesha, leading her on a never-before vacation to Shreya’s grandmother’s home. She soon realizes that Chatur’s magical powers become her only way to meet her grandma! Chatur’s playful spirit also serves as a guiding light to Ayesha’s path to mental healing.

Through Chatur, Ayesha discovers a connection to the world of stars and the moon that transcends the boundaries of the physical world, embarking on an enticing odyssey that ultimately leads her to a celestial reunion with her beloved Nani-maa among the stars. 

“Oh really? You’re starting to sound like my little brother, an annoying little man!” Ayesha teased Chatur. Their playful banter gradually gave way to a muddled conversation. Eventually, the gentle wind sang a soothing lullaby to the flowers, coaxing them into sleep once more as the night’s entertainment had ended.

At its core, “Grandma in the Stars” is a testament to the enduring power of love and memory to transcend even the greatest of losses. Through Ayesha’s adventure, Sharma explores profound themes of grief, resilience, and the interconnectedness of all beings across the vast expanse of the universe. 

The book serves as a poignant reminder that while life may be fleeting, the bonds forged through love are eternal, weaving a tapestry of connection that spans the cosmos. 

Sharma’s writing style is imbued with a sense of wonder and reverence for the natural world. Her prose is evocative and lyrical, painting vivid landscapes that shimmer with the ethereal glow of the stars. 

“A trillion stars twinkled quietly in the universe while the wind hummed the night song to the full moon – bright and charming!”

The language in “Grandma in the Stars” is poetic and easy to follow, with passages that resonate with emotion and depth. Using metaphors and symbolism adds meaning to the narrative and piques the young reader’s curiosity. 

Central to “Grandma in the Stars” are its endearing and relatable characters. Ayesha herself emerges as an optimistic, curious, and empathetic protagonist whose journey mirrors the universal quest for meaning and connection in the face of loss. 

The supporting characters Ratan, Champa, and Shreya are pivotal in steering the story into its unique path of Ayesha’s reunion with her grandmother in the fascinating Moontown.

“Ayesha shouted, “Nani-maa!” and rushed out of the door. She lost her balance and tumbled while trying to stop the flying bus. Sundari, the bus lady, glided to a halt. Tara descended from her ride gracefully, like a majestic queen dismounting from her stallion in the night sky. Silvery glitters trailed from the corner of her pallu as she stood facing Ayesha. 

Nani-maa was overwhelmed with joy. It was only when Ayesha rushed over to give her a hug that she realized who was there.”

As the story takes shape, the bond of trust and warmth between Ayesha and Chatur subtly defines its subtheme of friendship and love. 

In Grandma in the Stars, Sneha Sharma has crafted a luminous and unforgettable masterpiece that transcends the boundaries of time and space. Through Ayesha’s celestial odyssey, Sharma invites readers to embark on a journey of hope, healing, and self-discovery, where the bonds of love shine bright against the backdrop of the infinite night sky.With its enchanting storyline, lyrical prose, and heartfelt themes, Grandma in the Stars is an ageless gem that will leave readers spellbound long after the final page is turned.

By Divya Venkateswaran