61 pages • 2 hours read
Padma VenkatramanBorn Behind Bars
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2021A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Before You Read
Super Short Summary
In Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman, nine-year-old Kabir, who has spent his entire life in an Indian women's prison, is suddenly released without his mother into the hands of a dangerous stranger. Kabir must navigate the outside world alone, relying on courage, resilience, and new friendships to find his estranged family and fight for his mother's freedom. The book addresses imprisonment, abuse, and prejudice.
Reviews & Readership
Review Roundup
Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman intricately explores themes of identity and resilience through the eyes of a young boy growing up in an Indian prison. Critics praise its poignant storytelling, rich cultural context, and compelling character development. However, some found the pacing uneven at times. Overall, it is a heartfelt and enlightening read.
Who Should Read Born Behind Bars?
Readers who appreciate heartwarming, socially conscious middle-grade fiction will enjoy Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman. Fans of The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani or Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan, which also tackle complex social issues and feature resilient young protagonists, are likely to find this book captivating.
RecommendedReading Age
10-14yearsLexile Level
720L