PepperVine Press

Coorg tales crafted for tiny adventurers

At PepperVine Press, I create children’s books inspired by my home in Coorg, a place of misty hills, lush forests, and stories that linger around every corner. Each book is my way of sharing those little slices of wonder: the foods we eat, the animals we spot, and the playful adventures tucked into everyday life.It begins with two books, an ABC and a 123, each brimming with the flavors, animals, and adventures of Coorg. More stories will join them in the future!

• Read more

The story behind the stories

It began with my wish to share the magical world of Coorg with my children. I wanted them to feel the misty mornings, the tall trees, the playful monkeys, and the sense of adventure that filled my own childhood. These books are my way of bringing that wonder to life for them and for other little ones who are curious about the world.

• View Books

The ABCs in Avaya's kitchen

Step into Avaya’s kitchen for an alphabet full of flavor. From Bembale (bamboo) to Otti (rice flatbread) to zingy Zest, each page introduces little learners to foods and everyday items that fill homes in Coorg.Blending uniquely Kodava words with familiar global favorites, this playful ABC book invites children and families to discover, taste, and celebrate the joy of learning through food.

• Buy for $10

Currently available in US and Canada only.
Free shipping!

Type: Boardbook
Recommended ages: 0-3

Type: Boardbook
Recommended ages: 0-3

123 Coorg Critters

Counting becomes an adventure with the creatures of Coorg. From chatty hornbills to swinging monkeys, from busy bees to glowing fireflies, each number introduces little learners to the wildlife that calls this land home.With vibrant illustrations, this book invites children to explore, imagine, and count along with their new animal friends.

• Buy for $8

Currently available in US and Canada only.
Free shipping!

About me

Hi! I’m Tej Kalianda. I work as a UX designer at Google in Silicon Valley, where I’ve been making screens glow with ideas for over a decade now. With my engineering and design background, I’ve spent 15 years shaping impactful products for big tech.PepperVine Press is a different kind of project - one that’s much closer to my heart. It began with my longing to share a piece of Coorg, the place I grew up, with my own kids. Coorg’s soulful food, playful wildlife, and gentle rhythms have always stayed with me, no matter where work or life has taken me.When I couldn’t find the right books to pass that magic on, the designer in me rolled up her sleeves. What started as small sketches and stories for my two curious little ones (and their many imaginary friends) soon grew into the idea of PepperVine Press: a way to connect generations, places, and moments of fleeting childhood wonder with the roots that hold us steady.

Connect with me on LinkedIn
or explore my design portfolio on www.tejkalianda.com