Tucked away in Thiruvanmiyur lies a hidden gem of creativity, literature, and art that has captured the hearts and minds of visitors from around the world — a collective of writers, designers, artists, and editors, that distinguishes itself by embracing a collaborative and dialogic approach. Tara Books is renowned for its unwavering commitment to creating exceptional illustrated books that cater to both children and adults. What sets them apart is not only their in-house creations but also their collaborative ventures with creative professionals from across the globe. By selling rights to international publishers, Tara Books has transcended geographical boundaries, fostering literary partnerships in countries such as Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Spain, Netherlands, China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, and Thailand.
From children's books like A Rooster for a Pet to illustrated works for adults such as Origins of Art: The Gond Village of Patangarh, each publication is a testament to Tara Books' commitment to the visual medium. Its books have a strong visual impact, thanks to their vivid illustrations and rich artwork, making them highly sought after by readers who appreciate the intersection of art and literature. The collective plays with diverse printing processes, including silkscreen, letterpress, and risoprint, creating visually striking and unique editions. The accolades garnered on the international stage underscore the excellence and innovation embedded in Tara Books' diverse literary offerings.
Moreover, Tara Books goes beyond being a simple bookstore, offering an array of workshops and events that further enrich the creative spirit of its patrons. The store's significant role in early childhood education and its dedication to promoting the joy of reading and art are highly regarded. The store itself is a work of art, with beautiful architectural design that enhances the overall experience. White walls and ample lighting serve as the perfect backdrop for showcasing the colourful tones that line the shelves. An open-air reading area, next to a massive mural of a tree done in traditional Gond tribal art, allows visitors to immerse themselves in the world of Tara Books.
With a flagship store in Thiruvanmiyur and a new branch in Pondicherry, Tara Books continues to expand its literary reach. The Pondicherry location, chosen strategically for its cosmopolitan ambience, allows Tara Books to engage with a diverse community of readers, artists, and authors. The collaboration with Studio Tolsta adds a layer of artisanal craftsmanship to the new store, creating a space where visitors can linger, and explore carefully curated books, quilts, pouches, and bags. Despite unique layouts, both bookstores echo Tara Books' unwavering commitment to the art of creation and the celebration of storytelling, inviting readers into a world where each book is a masterpiece in visual and literary craft.
Books and Things is open every day from 10.30 AM to 7.30 PM
Tara Books is open every day except Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM
