The Battle for Baramulla

Set in 1947 Baramulla, India, this middle grade historical fiction novel plunges readers into the tumultuous period of the Partition and the tribal invasion of Kashmir. The story follows Zooni, a young girl whose town is ravaged by attacks, forcing her to grapple with questions of loyalty and safety. As her courageous cousin, Maqbool Sherwani, and other youngsters rise to protect their people, Zooni uncovers a dark secret that intensifies the danger. Part of the 'Songs of Freedom' series, this book offers a child's perspective on a significant historical event, exploring themes of bravery, resilience, and the complexities of identity during conflict for ages 8-12.

October 1947 Unwilling to join India or Pakistan, the Maharaja of Jammu and Kashmir wants his kingdom to remain independent. But then a wave of attacks from the northwest frontier, supported by Pakistan, ravages city after city . . . As friends leave the town in panic, and fear grips every neighbourhood, it is a time of reckoning for Zooni, as for the other people of Baramulla—with whom should their loyalties lay? A ragtag bunch of youngsters, including Zooni's brave cousin Maqbool Sherwani, promise to protect Kashmir and its people—but Zooni isn't sure how they can fight truckloads of tribesmen bearing grenades and guns. Zooni tries to find a safe space—but will it remain safe? And the dark secret she discovers makes the dangerous world even darker . . . The Songs of Freedom series explores the lives of children across India during the struggle for independence.