Kyrgyzstan - Children's Books

Kyrgyzstan is a beautiful place for a family trip. Many investments in the tourism infrastructure in Kyrgyzstan in the last decade make it a great place for an adventure in the mountains on horseback and in Osh, a main city along the Silk Road. Check out Osh, Issyk-Kul Lake, Karakol, and Jyrgalan.

Do you know of any other children’s books featuring Kyrgyzstan? Please feel free to note it in a comment below! 

Children's Books about Kyrgyzstan

Tales Told in Tents: Stories from Central Asia: Why are some carpets magic? What is a wish-tree? And where can the fountain of eternal life be found? The answers to these and many other intriguing questions can be found in Sally Pomme Clayton's enchanted storytelling journey through Central Asia. On her travels in the region, Sally has accumulated a wealth of folklore and knowledge of nomadic cultures. The 12 exotic retellings of stories related to the author in storytelling tents are linked by a mix of memories spiced with homespun wisdom, as she retraces her steps through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tadjikistan and Afghanistan.

The Clever Wife: A Kyrgyz Folktale: The Clever Wife is based on a traditional folktale from Kyrgyzstan in central Asia. Beautifully retold by award-winning author Rukhsana Khan, it is the story of a spirited young heroine named Danyshman, whose wit and courage draw the attention and admiration of the ruling Khan Bolotbek. But will intrigue, betrayal, and exile threaten her relationship with the khan? Superbly illustrated by Ayesha Gamiet, a master in the art of Islamic manuscript illumination, this classic “thinking outside the box” story will inspire young readers far and wide.

Kyrgyzstan (Cultures of the World): Kyrgyzstan isn't a country people generally know a lot about, but its exciting past and fascinating present are worth a closer look. That kind of in-depth focus is presented to readers in this detailed guide to the culture of Kyrgyzstan, featuring fun facts about its language, cuisine, leisure activities, and religious makeup. Readers discover important information about the political structure, economy, and environment of this former Soviet republic. With each turn of the page, colorful photographs, maps, and easy-to-follow recipes make this a cultural adventure unlike any other.

A Historical Atlas of Kyrgyzstan: Although not well known, Kyrgyzstan is strategically located next to China and shares borders with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan. This beautifully illustrated book discusses the history and geography of Kyrgyzstan and how, by the eighth century, the Arabs and Islam had moved into Central Asia. Students will be fascinated by the powerful and deadly Mongol forces that emerged in the region, destroying and conquering everything in their path, and created one of the largest empires ever seen in history. With easy-to-interpret maps, reading lists, and timelines, this accessible volume offers a comprehensive profile of Kyrgyzstan.

Bek's Quest: A Kyrgyz Rabbit Sees Friendship In A New Way: Bek, a Kyrgyz rabbit, loses his glasses and his animal friends help him look for a new pair. Scenes fuse a rabbit's world with traditional Kyrgyz yurt decor, a market place and children with a variety of special needs. Readers learn that they can overcome struggles and that friendship can come from unexpected places.  This book was written and illustrated by a 21 year old American girl who was living in Kyrgyzstan. As she invested in children with special needs both at an institution and in families, she realised the lack of children's books, particularly books normalising disabilities. She wants all children to know they are special, loved and were created for a purpose.  Bek's Quest has been translated into Kyrgyz and Russian for the children of Kyrgyzstan to enjoy.

Bonus! Felt Souvenirs from Kyrgyzstan

There are so many amazing felt products made in Kyrgyzstan, such as adorable felt animal toys made by One Village One Product that did a collaboration with Japanese company Muji or home decor from Tumar.