So, I thought I'd do a summer theme and review some children's books, but I guess that's not happening. It isn't my fault okay? Parinita Shetty and Aindri C.'s new Hook Book 'A Birthday Present for Aaji' is entirely to blame.

Hook Books are a series of books from Duckbill, an imprint of Penguin Random House India which are for getting your kids 'hooked' to reading. The books are short enough to read in one go, beautifully illustrated and often set in small towns. The books are sized like 'adult' books making young readers feel a little grown up perhaps when they hold them?

In 'A Birthday Present for Aaji', Jyoti wants to get her hardworking grandmother the perfect birthday gift. But what to get her?

Unable to think of something on her own, Jyoti travels around the small village of Tarkarli with her grandmother as she moves from one job to the next, asking those who know her Aaji best what they think she'd like.

Each person's answer reveals either something about themselves or about Aaji. Jayashri Kaki for example, runs a busy homestay and has three children. She suggests that perhaps Aaji would like a room of her own to spend some time alone in away from everyone else.

Sagar Kaka is Aaji's childhood friend and suggests a birthday party on the beach. He remembers how even as a child Aaji hated being inside and would spend hours on her favourite tree.

From Pallavi Tai who runs a house boat service to Chitra Kaki who seems bhajis by the sea to Himanshu Dada who manages a scuba diving company, everyone has suggestions and ideas. All of which contribute to the final gift that Aaji receives that really is quite lovely.

What I loved about the book were the insights Parinita reveals about her characters. I totally related to Jayashri Kaki's longing for a room of one's own and Chitra Kaki's suggestion of a secret place to eat favourite foods without having to share it.

I loved that we have a grandmother who hates cooking and cleaning - a nice little diversion from all the wonderful grandmother's in fiction and real life always cooking up a storm.

But most of all, I loved that Jyoti and everyone recognises how hardworking Aaji is (and goodness is she!) and their desire to give her something wonderful and thoughtful on her birthday.

I have a great urge to visit Tarkali, the place and people sound wonderful! And I think you will too after you read this book.

A special mention for Aindri C.'s illustrations. I always look forward to seeing their work in picture books. I loved how Aindri has depicted the characters, their clothes and mannerisms. My favourite spread is the one in which Chitra Kaki is relishing her bhaji!

Hook Books are available at an indie bookstore near you!