PepperVine Press

Coorg tales crafted for tiny adventurers

PepperVine Press children’s books are inspired by the author Tej Kalianda's home in Coorg, a place of misty hills, lush forests, and stories that linger around every corner. Each book is her way of sharing those little slices of wonder: the foods they eat, the animals they 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

This nostalgic journey began with the author's wish to share the magical world of Coorg with her children. She wanted them to feel the misty mornings, the tall trees, the playful monkeys, and the sense of adventure that filled her own childhood. These books are her 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 only in the US, Canada, and India.
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 only in the US, Canada, and India.
Free shipping!

About the author

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

Connect with Tej on LinkedIn
or explore her design portfolio on www.tejkalianda.com