Story 1: Mongal Thirudiya Pongal (மொங்கல் திருடிய பொங்கல்)

Incredibly excited to share with you the new face of Pongal fiction and a long-lost friend of the Grinch - Mongal the monster!

I think it's so much fun that Tamil has its own version of a Western pop culture classic. Why should they have all the fun, right? Don't forget to flex about him to your friends! Move aside grinchy-Christmas... It's time for a Mongalicious Pongal! 😘

P.s: Did you notice how Mongal changes colours across the covers? There's a reason why, but you have to read the book to find out! All credits to Christy (@chrisartspot) for the ingenious idea and rendering. Get your copy from @vaaranambooks !

Here's the synopsis:
The village is abuzz in preparation for their most beloved Pongal festival! “HRrrMMmm… VAekKKk!” Hmm? What’s that sound? Oh no... Mongal the monster is grumbling away in his cave! He can’t stand their excitement, or their joyful celebrations, or their colourful decorations. He’s threatening to put an end to the sun itself! Oh dear… Will Mongal have a change of heart?

Story 2: Pongal Thirudiya Mongal (பொங்கல் திருடிய மொங்கல்)

Just look at that cutie-patootie downing the sakkarai pongal... and the even more chellakutty sun wanting to get in on that action.

And did you notice Mongal's arukaani tail? O_O

There are lots of chubby bees and a well-loved cow (her name is Letchumi, but of course), and a big circus of curious villagers in this 2nd installment of the Mongal series!

Book 2 came about because I wondered what Mongal would be like if he actually started to like life above the ground. :)

Here's the synopsis:
Awww... With all his grumbles and mumbles long gone, Mongal is as happy a monster can be! This time around, he’s full of excitement to celebrate Pongal with the villagers. He also longs to bring them a very special gift . Mongal sets off on a tedious journey. Hmm? What’s this? OH NO! With no monster to protect the village, mysterious things begin to happen. Who is behind these dastardly deeds? And will Pongal return... before Mongal does?

Published by and available for purchase from @vaaranambooks with art by @chrisartspot