Electric Birds of Pothakudi

About this book

Inspired by a true story, Electric Birds of Pothakudi is a poetic, visually striking picture book about community, compassion, and living in harmony with the natural world. When a family of birds builds its nest inside the circuit box that powers the only streetlamps in a small South Indian village, Karuppu Raja faces an impossible choice: switch on the lights and destroy the nest, or leave the village in darkness until the chicks are safely hatched. As word spreads, the people of Pothakudi come together to protect the birds while caring for one another, discovering that even small acts of solidarity can make a lasting difference. Inspired by real events, this moving story celebrates community spirit, environmental stewardship, and the shared responsibility of preserving wildlife. With lyrical text by Karthika Naïr and bold, richly detailed artwork by Joëlle Jolivet, Electric Birds of Pothakudi offers young readers a memorable story of kindness, cooperation, and the connections between people and the living world around them. Selected for USBBY's Outstanding International Books List, 2026!