Bestselling author Amish Tripathi is set to enter children’s literature with Dhruv-Tara & The Great Indian History Quiz, the first book in a seven-title middle-grade adventure series to be published by Westland Books under its Red Panda imprint. The book will be released on July 27, with pre-orders opening on July 4.

Known for bestselling series such as the Shiva Trilogy and Ram Chandra Series, Amish now turns to younger readers with a story that combines adventure, friendship and Indian history. The novel follows two rival students, Dhruv Trivedi and Tara Dhoba, who are selected to represent their school in India’s biggest history quiz. What begins as an uneasy partnership evolves into an exciting journey through India’s past, where they encounter forgotten queens, ancient universities, hidden symbols and remarkable historical discoveries while learning the importance of teamwork, trust and resilience.

Described as the opening chapter of a larger seven-book series, the novel aims to make history engaging through quizzes, mysteries and fast-paced storytelling while introducing young readers to lesser-known aspects of India’s civilisational heritage.

Speaking about the book, Amish said his love for history began with an inspiring school teacher who made the subject come alive beyond textbooks. “The aim of the Dhruv-Tara series is to give young children a fun read that still teaches them something, more particularly, a rooted and indigenous approach to our history,” he said.

Westland Books Business Head Gautam Padmanabhan said the publisher was delighted to continue its long association with Amish through his first children’s book, adding that the series would inspire curiosity about India’s rich past. Vidhi Bhargava, Publisher at Red Panda, said the book blends adventure, rivalry, friendship and history to encourage young readers to explore India’s diverse heritage.

Amish is India’s fastest-selling author, with over 8 million copies of his books sold and translations in 21 languages. Besides writing, he has served as a diplomat, broadcaster and documentary host, and has received several honours, including an honorary doctorate from the University of York in 2026.

Aimed at middle-grade readers, Dhruv-Tara & The Great Indian History Quiz seeks to bring history alive through an entertaining blend of competition, mystery and discovery, marking a new chapter in Amish’s storytelling journey.