01/7 Books by Jawaharlal Nehru

Jawaharlal Nehru is one of the greatest names in the history of Indian independence. Independent India’s first Prime Minister, Jawaharlal Nehru was not just a great leader but also a well-known author who is said to have made invaluable literary contribution in shape of his timeless books like The Discovery of India, Glimpses of World History and A Bunch of Old Letters. His love for the little ones is well known and his birthday on November 14 is celebrated as Children’s Day. On this special occasion, here’s a list of books by Nehru that kids can pick to learn volumes about Indian history.

02/7​ The Discovery of India

Jawaharlal Nehru wrote the book ‘The Discovery of India’, while he was imprisoned at Ahmednagar fort for participating in the Quit India Movement. It is considered one of the best books on Indian history. He starts from ancient history and ends during the time of the British rule, weaving in both the history and philosophy of the times he talks about.
Photo: Penguin Books

03/7 ​Letters from a Father to his Daughter

Jawaharlal Nehru started writing to his daughter when she was 10 years old and in Mussourie while he was in Allahabad. He wrote on many things from how the Earth was formed to Indian and world history and even tried to teach her about politics and business. This delightful book is a great gift for children.
Photo: Penguin Books

04/7​ Glimpses of World History

In continuation to the last, this book is a compilation of letters Jawaharlal Nehru wrote to his daughter while he was imprisoned. Due to his political activism, he was often imprisoned and so would have to write letters to his daughter in lieu of parenting in person. He taught her about world history in these letters and his witty language is a delight to read.
Photo: Penguin Books

05/7​ Letters for a Nation: From Jawaharlal Nehru to His Chief Ministers 1947-1963

While he was serving as the Prime Minister of India, Jawaharlal Nehru would write letters every fortnight to the Chief Ministers. They are compiled in this book and their contents offer advice and insights on how to deal with real events. It's interesting to think about the differences the generations have had in dealing with problems.
Photo: Penguin Books

06/7​ An Autobiography

Nehru's autobiography is possibly his most read book. He wrote it while he was in prison in 1934 and 1935. He writes on his childhood, his upbringing and education but spends most of the book painting a picture of the political unrest in the India he grew up in. Reading this book is truly like traveling through history.
Photo: Penguin Books

07/7​ Nehru's India: Select Speeches

Nehru was known to be a great orator. He is best remembered for the speech he gave on the eve of India's independence, a Tryst with destiny, where he famously said, "At the stroke of the midnight hour, when the world sleeps, India will awake to life and freedom." This book compiles some of his best speeches. It is best read aloud.
Photo:OUP India