Yali Books is an independent publisher of books based in Clifton Park, New York. Through our stories, we are opening a window to South Asia –India, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, and the Maldives —and inviting the rest of the world to learn more about the incredible diversity of this region.

We aim to reflect and validate the experiences of people of color, particularly those of South Asian descent, through relatable and inspiring stories based on their lives. To this end, we actively seek out and mentor underrepresented voices in writing and illustration to craft authentic narratives

Yali Books was founded by Kala Sambasivan and Ambika Sambasivan.

Kala Sambasivan is a prolific and inventive children’s writer. She has published numerous stories in India’s leading newspapers and has two long-running columns in The Hindu and Deccan Herald. Her delightfully whimsical tales engage children in complex issues such as conservation with humor and creativity. Read some of her hilarious stories here.

Her daughter, Ambika Sambasivan, is an illustrator-by-accident. She has created artwork for books published by Scholastic India and Karadi Tales. She works with craft paper to create distinctive collages built on a simple, clean aesthetic. More of her work can be seen at Studio WotMot.