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Mayil #1
Mayil Will Not Be Quiet!
Meet Mayil Ganeshan, 12 going on spirited 13, who finally has her chance to say all she wants. But the diary for her is also an important step towards becoming 'Mayilwriter', to make up for all the stories she hasn't completed and the novel that didn't know where it was going. So she begins. What she gives is a spontaneous, sensitive, honest, intimate and often hilarious peek into the life and mind of an insightful young girl.
The Mayil that emerges is as lovable and recognisable as the delightful sketches she presents of her Amma, Appa, brother, grandfather and friends.
Mayil has all the confusion and confidence of adolescence as she faces the everyday dilemma of young people, as well as questions of gender stereotyping all around – from Ramayana stories to Rajnikanth movies. With enough to keep head, heart and funny bone tickled and happy, this is a must-read coming of age book by two highly talented young writers that will strike a chord with all who read it – pre-teen, teen and older.
The Mayil that emerges is as lovable and recognisable as the delightful sketches she presents of her Amma, Appa, brother, grandfather and friends.
Mayil has all the confusion and confidence of adolescence as she faces the everyday dilemma of young people, as well as questions of gender stereotyping all around – from Ramayana stories to Rajnikanth movies. With enough to keep head, heart and funny bone tickled and happy, this is a must-read coming of age book by two highly talented young writers that will strike a chord with all who read it – pre-teen, teen and older.
103 pages, Paperback
First published March 8, 2011
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
April 30, 2022
Dying of laughter and sheer joy! A part of me can't believe that Mayil was 13 exactly when I was 13 & I could have had this book then.
I am usually slow and careful with Indian YA because for me they involve returning to difficult feelings from when I was a teenager which I still haven't fully come to terms with/sat and had a good think about. There are often uncomfortable bits that make me pause and decide that I will come back to the book later. But I flew through Mayil - her sense of humour and conversational tone and cute doodles kept me going.
There were so many emotions/questions that Mayil had that made me remember mine. Thinking a lot about reading kidlit/YA as a form of inner child work.
I am usually slow and careful with Indian YA because for me they involve returning to difficult feelings from when I was a teenager which I still haven't fully come to terms with/sat and had a good think about. There are often uncomfortable bits that make me pause and decide that I will come back to the book later. But I flew through Mayil - her sense of humour and conversational tone and cute doodles kept me going.
There were so many emotions/questions that Mayil had that made me remember mine. Thinking a lot about reading kidlit/YA as a form of inner child work.
May 28, 2019
Oh oh oh, this was such a cute cute delightful book. Makes me smile whenever I think about it. It felt nice to read the diary entries of a 12 yo. Reminds me of the days when I used to write diaries too. 10/5 stars! Or why just 10? I think I will give this book a 100 stars. Must read for all middle grade children.
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October 18, 2025I had started reading it back in March and then I left it after 50-60 pages because my priorities were different! I am giving reading another shot in October. I'll try to finish the books I start. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and I am so proud of myself for finding the second book despite it being out of stock on (nearly) all websites. It's amazing to be able to work with Sowmya, thank you universe for these opportunities:)
January 2, 2018
A fun book the took me back in time and refreshed my school days. Especialy FLAMES.. How many times have I done this on the last page of my books with the names of my early childhood crushes :P :) Crazy!!
Nice read and good way to introduce teenagers to a lot of information that they can deal with.
Nice read and good way to introduce teenagers to a lot of information that they can deal with.
September 22, 2017
Awwww. What a cute book! (Detailed review by tomorrow... Hopefully)
January 7, 2015
Review: http://wp.me/p2J8yh-2Ko
There's much to be loved in children's fiction, and it's wonderful that a good children's book can be enjoyed by grown ups who read it too. This book is one such and I absolutely loved reading it. Mayil is a character that will remain in your heart for a long time after you finish reading it, as are other characters like Thamarai. This book, while being informative, is one of the most fun diaries, with all the innocence of childhood. It feels, and reads like a child has written it. I hope the authors have more of this lovely character lined up.
There's much to be loved in children's fiction, and it's wonderful that a good children's book can be enjoyed by grown ups who read it too. This book is one such and I absolutely loved reading it. Mayil is a character that will remain in your heart for a long time after you finish reading it, as are other characters like Thamarai. This book, while being informative, is one of the most fun diaries, with all the innocence of childhood. It feels, and reads like a child has written it. I hope the authors have more of this lovely character lined up.
August 8, 2016
This is the kind of book I would have loved to read when I was a curious teenager. Maybe it needed someone from my generation to write this? This book surprised me with its insights and with just how much FUN it was. And three cheers to the Room of One's Own inclusion. My mother read it before I did, and loved it too :)
September 13, 2025
I recently stumbled upon this book hidden in the back of my bookshelf and was HIT by nostalgia. I remember that it was my father who brought me this book, and somewhat at the right age too, when I was 14 or 15. I found bits and pieces of myself in Mayil and the parts which didn't reflect all of me, I still enjoyed. God it was such a fun read! For a teenager who only knew of Harry Potter and Geronimo books back then, this was quite unconventional and much fun, more realistic and relatable for a young girl in an Indian household. I loved discovering that there is more than one way or style of writing a story. Oh this one even inspired me to write my own diary!!! (which I later discontinued shortly :P ) I loved the illustrations, the title she gave for each day and her discovery of periods :D
I've come so far. From being gifted this fresh book by my dad to gifting it to my little cousin who's in her coming-of-age phase, I think I really have come so far. It was a different feeling, doing that. It felt like giving away a part of my childhood. But for a good cause. A bittersweet feeling. I hope she enjoys this book more than I did, and finds her new best friend inside the pages of good books :)) I really am getting old, aren't I? <3
I've come so far. From being gifted this fresh book by my dad to gifting it to my little cousin who's in her coming-of-age phase, I think I really have come so far. It was a different feeling, doing that. It felt like giving away a part of my childhood. But for a good cause. A bittersweet feeling. I hope she enjoys this book more than I did, and finds her new best friend inside the pages of good books :)) I really am getting old, aren't I? <3
September 25, 2017
I bought this as a gift for a friend's kid after reading the blurb and some glowing reviews. When I had it in my hand, I had to read it before gifting it. The reviews did not lie.
The authors have managed to create the diary of a curious and intelligent 12-year-old with great authenticity and into it they have distilled the magical ordinariness of childhood along with sage, non-pedantic commentary on issues as diverse as sexism, domestic abuse, gender-based discrimination and more. All this without making it heavy handed. A delightful, laugh-out-loud book, as much for young girls as it is for adults floundering in their attempts to do right in a child's world.
The authors have managed to create the diary of a curious and intelligent 12-year-old with great authenticity and into it they have distilled the magical ordinariness of childhood along with sage, non-pedantic commentary on issues as diverse as sexism, domestic abuse, gender-based discrimination and more. All this without making it heavy handed. A delightful, laugh-out-loud book, as much for young girls as it is for adults floundering in their attempts to do right in a child's world.
December 30, 2016
Have been reading a lot of children's book this year. This book was really engaging. It is for children above 10 years but even us adults who grew up in the 80s and 90s can make a connection.
It is the diary of Mayil and it gives a sneak peak into her world, a budding feminist and a very cheerful child. I loved the native touch of the writing, a very Madras kid with whom many of us would agree.
It is the diary of Mayil and it gives a sneak peak into her world, a budding feminist and a very cheerful child. I loved the native touch of the writing, a very Madras kid with whom many of us would agree.
October 23, 2017
Funny, imaginative and genuine. Addresses gender in a way that I never saw in books I read while growing up. Wish I could feel my reaction to the book if I'd read it as a child and wonder what other children think of it.
Also, I like the fact that the story shows how Mayil deals with both good and bad situations that are likely to affect pre-teens, often in a non-stereotypical way.
Also, I like the fact that the story shows how Mayil deals with both good and bad situations that are likely to affect pre-teens, often in a non-stereotypical way.
February 17, 2025
Read this book when I was around the same age as Mayil here. Loved it and enjoyed this delightful little bundle of joy.
This book made me feel so seen when I thought no one understands me. Looking at this now digs up nostalgia. Such a relatable book for early teens.
This book made me feel so seen when I thought no one understands me. Looking at this now digs up nostalgia. Such a relatable book for early teens.
July 5, 2018
Must read for pre/ early adolescents. Read it back when it was published in 2011.
November 18, 2019
I could connect to this book very much... It is so lively diary... I think Parents need to read...
November 17, 2021
This realistic fiction is a cute story challenging gender roles and other LGBTQ+ issues in modern society.
January 4, 2025
Beautiful book that took me back to being a teenager. I'm sure Mayil and I find resonance in writing our journal everyday (well almost!). Loved the book!
September 13, 2025
literally one of the best books read till now. I was clinged to this book for 3 days. this was the time when i had just started discovering books. literally would recommend anyone to read it.
April 1, 2021
This is literally my fave book. I think I've read it five times in the past 2 years. I loved how relatable this book was which made me enjoy it even more. In conclusion, get this book and u won't regret it.
November 16, 2012
Mayil is a spirited, 12, going on 13-year-old girl. Full of life, opinions, witty, mischievous, she just cannot be quiet. Mayil dreams of being a writer when she grows up – Mayilwriter, and her dad gets her a diary to practice her writing in and to try and be quiet.
‘Mayil will not be quiet’ transports you into the life of a pre-teen, in today’s world, which while being similar in emotions and feelings that we had while growing up, also has today’s distractions and problems that a child might face. Mayil’s sibling rivalry with her brother Tamarai, her love-hate relationship with him, her mother and father’s parenting styles, teenage emotions, crushes, friendships and disappointments – what a read it was. Mayil is smart, sensible, sensitive while being naughty, trying to test her boundaries when she can, even though she knows she shouldn’t be doing it. In other words, a normal pre-teen/almost teen. She was smart without being patronizing and understanding – her jottings on her grandfather’s love for her grandmother are so touching, and the way she over hears parents discussing a serious issue, and tries to do her bit, without making them aware that she knew. I wished I could hug her then. It took me back to my childhood, and in a way prepared me for whats coming up for me.
All the characters are fantastically etched. While I loved Mayil’s character, I just adored her mum. Such a sensible, pragmatic lady, and such a role model for Mayil. I especially loved the way she parented Mayil. Sensible, gave her space and was around when she needed her. So many issues that were brought up and addressed in a wonderfully sensible way. There was no shying away from issues like gender discrimination or sex education. The book was completely devoid of gender stereotypes – loved it! Mayil, also packs in a powerful punch, and Thamarai likes dolls – and why not! The best part was that the book really does feel as if it were a diary written by a 12-13 yr old. It feels so natural, not a note out of sync.. The illustrations were super cute too.
If I have a problem with the book, its just that it ended too quickly. The book left me yearning to know what happened next I can only hope that they come out with sequels, because, I for one, haven’t had my fill of Mayil! Probably one of the very best books I’ve read in recent times. One that both children(above the age of 10 perhaps), and grown-ups can enjoy in equal measure – that’s not easy to achieve, is it?
Just have to add -Mayil and Thamarai – such imaginative names! Can I say that I loved the book – just one more time? Can’t wait for daughter to grow up to read this book!
‘Mayil will not be quiet’ transports you into the life of a pre-teen, in today’s world, which while being similar in emotions and feelings that we had while growing up, also has today’s distractions and problems that a child might face. Mayil’s sibling rivalry with her brother Tamarai, her love-hate relationship with him, her mother and father’s parenting styles, teenage emotions, crushes, friendships and disappointments – what a read it was. Mayil is smart, sensible, sensitive while being naughty, trying to test her boundaries when she can, even though she knows she shouldn’t be doing it. In other words, a normal pre-teen/almost teen. She was smart without being patronizing and understanding – her jottings on her grandfather’s love for her grandmother are so touching, and the way she over hears parents discussing a serious issue, and tries to do her bit, without making them aware that she knew. I wished I could hug her then. It took me back to my childhood, and in a way prepared me for whats coming up for me.
All the characters are fantastically etched. While I loved Mayil’s character, I just adored her mum. Such a sensible, pragmatic lady, and such a role model for Mayil. I especially loved the way she parented Mayil. Sensible, gave her space and was around when she needed her. So many issues that were brought up and addressed in a wonderfully sensible way. There was no shying away from issues like gender discrimination or sex education. The book was completely devoid of gender stereotypes – loved it! Mayil, also packs in a powerful punch, and Thamarai likes dolls – and why not! The best part was that the book really does feel as if it were a diary written by a 12-13 yr old. It feels so natural, not a note out of sync.. The illustrations were super cute too.
If I have a problem with the book, its just that it ended too quickly. The book left me yearning to know what happened next I can only hope that they come out with sequels, because, I for one, haven’t had my fill of Mayil! Probably one of the very best books I’ve read in recent times. One that both children(above the age of 10 perhaps), and grown-ups can enjoy in equal measure – that’s not easy to achieve, is it?
Just have to add -Mayil and Thamarai – such imaginative names! Can I say that I loved the book – just one more time? Can’t wait for daughter to grow up to read this book!
August 25, 2015
Anil Menon reviews the book on Goodbooks: "Mayil Ganeshan, the twelve-year-old heroine of Mayil Will Not Be Quiet, which won the Bal Sahitya Puraskar this year, is a diarist who wants to be a fiction writer. Diarists live in the hope, of course, that their private, unmediated, and unspeakably intimate entries will be read by someone who has no business reading them. Mayil too records her daily experiences for the benefit of a future reader. As she herself confesses: “I need to find a lock for this diary. I don’t want anyone else to know what’s in here. I really don’t.”
So what’s in this diary that she really wants us to read? Mayil, of course. What we learn is what it’s like to be Mayil Ganeshan. The entries reveal a young girl whose world is a cross between Malgudi Days and the Age of YouTube. Her inner world is a cosy South Indian sanctuary comprised of a loving and competent mother (Amma), an endearingly hapless father (Appa), an indulgent grandfather (Thatha), and an irritating younger brother (Thamarai). Her outer world has things like exams, frenemies, unemployment, sexism, menstrual periods, and eunuchs, who she learns are to be called transgenders." Click here to read the full review: http://goodbooks.in/node/7293
So what’s in this diary that she really wants us to read? Mayil, of course. What we learn is what it’s like to be Mayil Ganeshan. The entries reveal a young girl whose world is a cross between Malgudi Days and the Age of YouTube. Her inner world is a cosy South Indian sanctuary comprised of a loving and competent mother (Amma), an endearingly hapless father (Appa), an indulgent grandfather (Thatha), and an irritating younger brother (Thamarai). Her outer world has things like exams, frenemies, unemployment, sexism, menstrual periods, and eunuchs, who she learns are to be called transgenders." Click here to read the full review: http://goodbooks.in/node/7293
May 6, 2012
I read the book after many recommended it to me in the blog world. It is written through the eyes of a 12- 13 year old Mayil Ganeshan. At first it was dis belief that greeted me as i felt that the English used was too refined. Then I corrected myself because as a diary writer i know that children can write quite well. As I kept on reading it grew even more interesting. Mayil asked questions which we have asked as teens. Issues of Gender stereotyping and sex are addressed quite subtly. Maybe with so much subtlety that even a book for adults would not have been able to accomplish. I totally recommend it to girls, mothers and even boys of that age group for information which is quite accurate in my point of view and for a fun read for others too.
August 13, 2013
A year in the life of spunky Mayil Ganeshan contains a lot of adventures and some disasters, a lot of questions and some answers. It's funny and touching and very lovable. A friend told me how much her pre-teen daughter had enjoyed it, so I picked up a copy and am so glad I did! Like Sharon Creech's Absolutely Normal Chaos, its appeal lies in making you feel a part of a young and lively family. I was taken back to the years when my own children were growing up, and to earlier years when my siblings and I romped and squabbled our way to adulthood. Lovely book!
January 27, 2015
I'm a major fan of Mayil author Sowmya Rajendran's blog. That's the reason I picked up Mayil from the library.
In one line, this book is a real nostalgia-trigger.
The twelve-year old Mayil reminds you of your own childhood in South India - playing FLAMES, the travails of keeping your diary away from your prying younger brother, crushes at school...
At the end of the book, Mayil becomes so real that you forget that you are reading words written by someone else in whose imagination Mayil exists.
A recommended read not just for youngsters, but also for adults!
In one line, this book is a real nostalgia-trigger.
The twelve-year old Mayil reminds you of your own childhood in South India - playing FLAMES, the travails of keeping your diary away from your prying younger brother, crushes at school...
At the end of the book, Mayil becomes so real that you forget that you are reading words written by someone else in whose imagination Mayil exists.
A recommended read not just for youngsters, but also for adults!
January 9, 2015
Mayil Ganesan, aka Mayilwriter is an aspiring author in her teens. This book is a hilarious take on growing up and the associated pains and questions in a teen's mind.
Written as Mayil's diary, this book makes an engrossing read for those who enjoy Children's literature and for those with an interest towards gender issues.
For a more detailed review, check out PlusMinus'n'More
Written as Mayil's diary, this book makes an engrossing read for those who enjoy Children's literature and for those with an interest towards gender issues.
For a more detailed review, check out PlusMinus'n'More
January 7, 2016
Inquisitive, thoughtful, funny and fiesty, that is Mayil, a twelve year old on the verge of teens girl. The book is her diary. It reveals the world around us through the eyes of a 12-year old who is bent on scrutinising everything through and forming her own opinions. Its hilarious and insightful. It instantly fills the reader with renewed positivity and a desire to read the sequel 'Mostly Madly Mayil'.
February 5, 2014
Was laughing through the read... I would recommend it to all parents - gives a good insight into what goes on in the kid's mind...:-) I love the way Mayil's parents deal with situations. The language is simple and at the same time brings out the vivacity of Mayil...:-) She is colourful and perky... Loved Mayil....
March 14, 2011
It was like reading my own story! That is why I went through the pain of Adding it!
The story is about a high spirited teenage girl called Mayil and we get to take a sneak peek int her life!
It is a light read which you dont want to miss out on!
The story is about a high spirited teenage girl called Mayil and we get to take a sneak peek int her life!
It is a light read which you dont want to miss out on!
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April 10, 2014A very well written book for the early teens.
May 11, 2014
A walk down memory lane...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews