Ponnu Takes The Train

Ponnu really, truly, never wants to get on a train again. But his favourite football team is playing the finals — and the stadium is only reachable by train.

Sumi Chandrasekharan's lovable noodlehead Ponnu is back in this sequel to Kozhukatta. He's forgetful, slightly accident-prone, and guaranteed to get into trouble — but also completely impossible not to root for. Published by Tota Books (Penguin), 2023. Ages 4 to 8.

Why parents reach for this one:

• Genuinely funny — the kind of funny that makes kids ask for it again. Parents on Amazon report their children reaching for both Ponnu books constantly.
• If your child loved Kozhukatta, this is the obvious next read — same character, same warm comic tone.
• Short enough for a single sitting, memorable enough to last weeks.

How it helps kids:

• Comedy and wordplay build reading enthusiasm in reluctant readers.
• Ponnu's imperfect, lovable personality is a gentle lesson in perseverance despite embarrassment.

Best for ages 4 to 8. A natural pair with Kozhukatta — gift both together for a child who likes to laugh.

Aaram's take: Noodlehead stories are a rich South Indian tradition and Sumi Chandrasekharan has made one genuinely hard to put down. We stocked both Ponnu books because they're the kind of funny that works at bedtime.