Book Review: Tiny Tales for the Teeming Mind

Tiny Tales for the Teeming Mind. Prabha Girish, Self Published, June 2024, Paperback and eBook, 86 pages 

Reviewed by Shanti Nagarkatti.

Prabha Girish’s debut short story collection Tiny Tales for the Teeming Mind presents a mosaic of people and exotic locations.   

The collection comprises ten stories, each set in a different country. The book includes fun illustrations hand-drawn by the author, a page of facts about each country, and introspective questions at the end of each story to spark thoughtful reflection. 

Although tailored to teens and tweens (middle-grade readers), the stories can be enjoyed by audiences of any age who wish to discover or rediscover the joy of reading. 

In her writing, Girish celebrates culture and color. Her stories revolve around the everyday joys, dreams, and trials of people of color. Employing a narrative style that is both funny and bittersweet, these stories give voice to themes of strength, hope, and resilience.  

Each story highlights elements of the human condition and portrays the characters in a warmhearted manner. One of my favorites was “A Blurry Excuse,” in which a lost pair of glasses leads eleven-year-old Nilofer, who feels sidelined at school, to daydream about spending a leisurely day at home. The story takes place in Oman but resonates globally with anyone who has felt left out or experienced bullying.  

“A River of Diamonds,” set along Nepal’s Kosi River, tells the story of two children who want to be friends, each hoping to gain something from the other. Reflections at the end of this story invite readers to consider how to communicate better with others.  

Some of the stories, while seemingly straightforward, contain plot twists that leave an impression long after the last page has been turned. For example, in “Out with a Bang” (Cairo, Egypt), loud noises can be traced to an unexpected source during a mall security guard’s last day on the job.  

Girish excels at crafting relatable characters and providing a window into their lives. The stories incorporate light humor to gently introduce young readers to diverse cultures, acceptance, and inclusivity.  

Tiny Tales for the Teeming Mind is a great read for anyone who wishes to embark on a journey with a charming and memorable cast of characters.