The Flight of the Mermaid

Sirish Rao is one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary Indian writing. He has authored 16 books, ranging from novels and children's books to re-tellings of myths, and collections of pop art; several have won international awards. His writing reflects his interests. Hailing from the Gond tribe of Madhya Pradesh in India, Bhajju Shayam's captivating visuals and easy storytelling style fuse his perceptions of the modern world with his tribe's unique visual language. His work has been exhibited widely in India, as well as in Milan, The Hague, Paris and London. Perhaps the most versatile artist of the Gond art tradition, Bhajju uses inherited forms in very current and expressive ways, while experimenting with innovative subjects and new ideas. "There are new influences in my work, but my art is still the same", he has said, reflecting upon his success. "I never expected this kind of response; I thought people would find my way of looking at the world odd". Gita Wolf has written more than 14 books for children and adults. Considered one of the most original and creative voices in contemporary Indian publishing, she has pursued her interest in exploring and experimenting with the form of the book and its status as a revered cultural object. Several of her children's books have won major international awards.