Our Story
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 (Editor-at-large)
Kala 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.
Ambika Sambasivan (Publisher)
Ambika Sambasivan, is an illustrator-by-accident, puzzle maker, and the publisher at Yali Books. She enjoys every aspect of running a small children's press. Tweet at her @ambikasam.
Taryn Jackson (Sales & Marketing Associate)
Taryn is an experienced educational professional and literacy consultant based in Port Lucie, FL. She is working to expand Yali Books' marketing and publicity efforts and build lasting sales relationships with schools and public libraries.
Where to find our books:
Our books are available at:
and many more online retailers.
For resellers and institutional buyers:
Ingram iPage
Baker & Taylor
Follett School Solutions
Perma-Bound
United Library Services (CA)
OverDrive (eBooks)
EBSCO (eBooks)