A Kashmiri girl listens to her grandmother while sipping pink tea, surrounded by snow and memories.
Noon Chai and a Story
Noon Chai and a Story
Average Rating: 0.0
Country: INDIA
Author: Adithi Rao
Illustrator: Ghazal Qadri
Ages: 5-8
Publisher: Tulika Books

About The Story

In the remote village of Gurez in Kashmir, where snow blankets rooftops and books are rare, Amiya’s dream is simple: she wants to build a library. When the “Uncle from Far Away” visits her classroom with a picture book, he sparks an idea that changes everything. Turning to her grandmother, Deidi—whose memory holds a lifetime of oral stories—Amiya begins recording tales over steaming noon chai and buttery kulchas. Together with her sister’s illustrations, a new book is born. This gentle children’s story weaves together themes of intergenerational storytelling, the Partition of India, and the emotional impact of political separation. It highlights the power of books, memories, and cultural heritage—especially when passed from grandparent to grandchild. Also see: – Ok Om Bok Festival – a festival story where grandparents share cultural rituals. – A growing Zamasama collection on grandparents, memory, and cultural preservation.

Themes

Displacement
Culture & Tradition
Social and Emotional Learning

Sub Themes

Intergenerational Storytelling
Power of Books & Libraries
Partition of India
Oral Histories

Parent-Teacher Guide

Learning Outcome

  • Understand how grandparents preserve stories, culture, and tradition across generations.
  • Recognize how books and storytelling create access to education in underserved communities.
  • Explore the emotional effects of political separation through child-friendly discussion.
  • Reflect on how food and tea connect people across cultures.

Activities

  • Students draw a teacup and write one memory, story, or tradition from a family member inside it.

Story Discussion Guide

Before reading

  • What’s your favorite story from your grandparents or elders?
  • What food or drink reminds you of home?
  • Have you ever written down or drawn a family memory?

During reading

  • Why does Amiya want a library?
  • What do you think noon chai symbolizes in this story?
  • What feelings does Deidi carry from her past?
  • How do grandparents pass on culture even without books?

Applicable Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 4 – Quality Education

Shows how storytelling and books support quality education in underserved areas

SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Highlights inclusion and voice for traditionally marginalized regions.

SDG 16 – Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions

Uses personal narrative to model peaceful coexistence and historical awareness

SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

Celebrates cultural identity and local wisdom in building community resilience.

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