Ammu and the Sparrows

A touching tale of love, hope, and reunion, Ammu and the Sparrows beautifully captures a child’s bond with nature and the magic of waiting.

on Oct 11, 2025

Ammu and the Sparrows by Vinitha R, illustrated by Jayesh Sivan, is a tender and emotionally layered story published by Pratham Books. The book captures the world of young Ammu, who spends his days feeding two sparrows he lovingly calls Amma and Accha. When the birds suddenly stop visiting, Ammu is filled with worry and longing. Guided by his comforting grandmother, Ammamma, he learns to wait and hope — until one day, the sparrows return, bringing along a baby sparrow.

Through simple yet powerful storytelling, Vinitha R explores themes of love, loss, patience, and new beginnings. The story’s gentle rhythm mirrors the emotional landscape of childhood — where even small moments of connection can mean everything. The beautiful illustrations breathe warmth and life into Ammu’s world, making it relatable for both children and adults.

Winner of the Neev Literature Award (2021) and featured on the Parag Honour List, Ammu and the Sparrows stands out for its sensitivity and depth. It reminds readers that hope often takes the shape of a small flutter — sometimes, all you need to do is wait for it to return.