When a Huro Sings

When a Huro Sings, written by Nandan Joshi and illustrated by Imlijongshi Lemtu, is a beautifully illustrated level-2 book for young children who recognise familiar words and can read new words with help. It introduces readers to the huros (western hoolock gibbons), the only apes found in India. This book was published by Sauramandala Foundation, Meghalaya, as part of The Forgotten Folklore Project (TFFP) which brings to life 65 stories from communities in Meghalaya and other northeastern states of India. The story books, developed in collaboration with local artists, aim to contribute to early childhood education and disseminate knowledge on local nature, culture, foods, garments, kitchens, and more.

Set in the lush and biodiverse Garo Hills of Meghalaya, the book celebrates the harmony between natural vegetation, animals, and the local Garo community. In these hills the huros greet each day with enchanting songs. The story follows a playful morning as Nono, a little Garo girl, awakens to the magical melody of a huro singing. The huro’s song sets the rhythm for life in the forest: rivers like the Simsang begin to dance, the techri flowers bloom, elephants bathe, and families go about their daily routines of cooking, farming, and working.

The book joyfully captures the interconnectedness of the gibbons and the Garo ecosystem; their presence is deeply woven into the balance of forest life. Midway through the book, the tone shifts to caution. It gently warns that if the huros disappear, so will the songs and the forest itself. Children are encouraged to respect and protect these shy apes from harm like hunting, captivity, deforestation, and electric wires. A special ‘huro promise’ also invites young readers to become lifelong friends of the huros and guardians of the forest.

The 24-page book is full of evocative watercolour illustrations and available in English, Khasi, Pnar, Garo, Hindi, Tamil – with more translations to come on Storyweaver by Pratham Books.

Focus by Aseema.