Heart to Heart
Research · Writing · Illustration · Book Design
A series of three illustrated children's books exploring subtle childhood emotions through rhythm, storytelling and shared reading. Developed through mentorship with Tulika Publishers.
How do children make sense of feelings they do not yet have words for?
This question emerged from another one of my own: why have children's books always stayed with me? Heart to Heart grew from exploring stories as tools that translate complex emotions into experiences children can recognise and adults can share. Through rhyme, repetition and participation, the series transforms reading into a shared act of connection, offering comfort rather than conclusions.
Exploration
Working alongside Tulika Publishers transformed my understanding of children's storytelling. I began to see books not as objects to be read, but as experiences to be shared. These insights shaped three guiding principles that informed every decision: honour emotional complexity through simple language; invite children to actively participate in the story; replace tidy lessons with gentle endings that offer comfort instead of certainty.
Holding On To Blanket Red
A story about attachment and the courage to share, where holding on too tightly slowly gives way to the joy of letting others in.
The Birthday That Changed Its Mind
A story about disappointment and unexpected joy, discovering that the moments we don't plan for often become the ones we remember most.
A Wibbly Wobbly Creation
A story about frustration and perspective, where imperfect lines come together to reveal something unexpectedly beautiful.
Field Learning
To move beyond assumptions, I tested stories through live storytelling sessions with children and families at Venkatappa Art Gallery, Bangalore, observing how rhythm, prompts and participation shaped the reading experience.
Field Learning
I later expanded this research while facilitating activities in the ABC (Art by Children) Room at the Kochi-Muziris Biennale 2025, where collaborative play and open-ended storytelling further informed the project. These experiences reinforced a core belief that guided the series: children engage most deeply when they are invited to co-create the story rather than simply listen to it.
Heart to Heart reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful design outcome isn't a book, it's two people lingering over one a little longer.