The Fire Walker by Ainkaran Sivaaji and illustrated by N. Dejeshwini is due in mid-September 2026. I think I will read it at least once more before it comes out and at least once when I find a finished copy (I read via an online reader copy). There is a lot going on with the theme and illustrations. The idea is simple: a child worries about his father, wonders how people will react when they see the father is not well, and can the father not hurt himself while doing the tradition of fire walking at the end of the festival. It turns into how the son can help the father (as his father had helped him) and how traditions are passed down.
Simple enough, but the feeling is that there is more. There is something deeper than the surface story. This made me feel that you can adapt this book to multiple ages. This is reinforced by the extras included at the end of the story. The cover gives you a good idea of colors, details and sophistication of things. The images are warm, soft and solid, even whimsical occasionally. There is a nice, cozy combination of elements. 
This is not just a book about representation or about fathers and sons. It is what you make of it. What you take from it is what you have put into it. It would make a fantastic Father’s Day Gift (June 2027 of course), but also a birthday or anytime gift. It is a book to read with your children (regardless of gender). It is good for a classroom setting as you can talk about the culture and the country things are set in. Sivaaji’s story is one that works for many people, ages and situations.
