The Race For Rugda : Story Of A Young Girl's Quest In Jharkhand

The Race for Rugda: Story of a Young Girl's Quest in Jharkhand by Lesley Denise Biswas, illustrated by Anupama Ajinkya Apte, follows Savita on a determined search through the forests of Jharkhand. Her mother wants to eat rugda, and Savita sets out to collect the wild mushrooms before other people pick them all.

Designed for children aged 5 and above, this Hook Books story combines short, accessible text with colourful illustrations and an engaging adventure. Along the way, young readers encounter a story rooted in the landscapes, food and everyday experiences of Jharkhand.

About This Book

Savita's simple mission becomes a race against time when interruptions repeatedly get in her way. With rugda being sought by others too, she must keep trying to reach the mushrooms before they disappear from the forest.

The story introduces young readers to a local food and the forest setting of Jharkhand through an age-appropriate narrative. Its focus on Savita's quest also creates opportunities to encounter themes of determination, family and curiosity.

As part of the Hook Books series, The Race for Rugda is positioned between picture books and early chapter books. Short sections of text and bright illustrations help make the story approachable for children beginning to read independently.

What You'll Discover

• Savita's quest to collect rugda for her mother
• A forest adventure set in Jharkhand
• The race to find mushrooms before others gather them
• A child navigating unexpected interruptions along the way
• A glimpse of local food and everyday life
• Short, accessible text for beginning readers
• Colourful illustrations accompanying the story

Perfect For

• Children aged 5 and above
• Early readers beginning to read independently
• Parents and teachers looking for culturally rooted children's stories
• Children interested in nature and Indian settings
• Readers discovering the landscapes and cultures of India

Why You'll Love This Book

The Race for Rugda offers young readers a lively quest grounded in the forests and everyday life of Jharkhand. With Savita's determination at its centre, the story combines family, nature and local culture with an accessible format designed to support children as they develop confidence in reading.