Iya and the Map of Gentle Journeys

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Mani Mahesh Aurora

Illustrated by Maryam Ahmad

 

‘This book introduces children to the values of responsible tourism through the adventures of Iya, a curious young traveller. With vibrant illustrations and simple storytelling, it makes sustainability fun and relatable for ages 6 to 8. 

‘The narrative inspires children to connect with nature, respect local culture, and understand their role in protecting the planet. Mani brings to the book a rare blend of instinct, insight, and involvement that makes him a compelling storyteller. With over a decade of grassroots experience in Himalayan villages, he has helped co-create responsible tourism models that revived abandoned communities. His work at the intersection of culture, ecology, and education gives this story its unique authenticity. 

‘Through Iya and the Map of Gentle Journeys, he shares those lessons with children—the future travellers and leaders of change.’
—Dilip Cherian

Click here to download Activity/Fun Sheets.

Category: Chapter Book ISBN: 978-81-986528-8-1 (Hardcover)

Description

Mani Mahesh Aurora left bustling city life and his career as a journalist at 23 to discover stories in the hinterlands of the Himalayas. Since then, he has worked closely with rural communities to revive ancient traditions, bring ecological solutions, strengthen rural economies, and create educational tourism experiences that connect children like Iya with nature, culture, and responsible travel.

Mani Mahesh has facilitated journeys for young learners from around the world, bridging cultures and ages through hands-on adventures in remote villages. His work inspires curiosity, respect, and compassion for the planet and its beings.

His projects in responsible tourism in the Indian Himalayas have gained global recognition, including the Gold Award at the World Responsible Tourism Awards in London. As a life design coach, social entrepreneur, and author, Mani Mahesh also bagged the ‘Grassroots Champion—Sustainability Hero’ award at the Outlook Responsible Tourism Awards and was featured as a brand ambassador for Facebook (now Meta), in recognition of his leadership in social impact.

When not writing or coaching, he enjoys meditating, being with his loved ones, walking the earth and soaking in nature’s secrets, cherishing the quiet rhythms of countryside life, listening to the breeze, dancing under the stars, and discovering cultures and stories that stir the childlike magic within us and reconnect us to our most innate nature.

Mani Mahesh is online at www.manimahesh.co.

Maryam Ahmad is a BFA in Applied Arts with a diverse creative career spanning advertising, illustration, animation, and fine art. A prolific painter whose works adorn Army messes and private collections, she is equally passionate about teaching art to children and specially-abled students worldwide. More recently, she has embraced pottery, creating whimsical hand-crafted ceramics.

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