This new book aims to teach children about fuel with the help of tiny creatures

05 March,2026 09:40 AM IST |  Mumbai  |  Nandini Varma

A new picture book series will teach young readers all about fuel through the story of little green creatures, the Dordles

Illustrations courtesy/Aindri C, Pratham Books


Your browser doesn’t support HTML5 audio

In The Dordles trilogy (Pratham Books), little aliens are stuck on a planet with scarce resources. They must find fuel to get their spaceship running in order to get home. In his three-part narrative, CG Salamander opens conversations on fuel, and the need for its judicious use for young readers.


CG Salamander

He explains, "With books that have an element of learning, I prefer to craft an adventure around the concept." He imagined "a post-human Earth where we see these endearing characters." After Aindri C revealed the illustrated creatures, he knew that they would be called ‘Dordles', "because it's super fun to say out loud."

The Dordles Find Fuel

We meet the Dordles, who are busy making a list of all the fuels that could get their spaceship started. From a small piece of coal to the bark of a tree, they try to gather whatever is left behind by humans, if there is anything left at all. Young readers learn what fuel is.

The Dordles Save Fuel

The Dordles learn to use fuel smartly, now that what they've found is getting over. They look for ways to save energy, plant trees, and replace broken things. Children are introduced to the concept of fossil fuels.

The Dordles Go Home

The Dordles take to the sea and sky in search of alternative, quick energy sources. They discover devices that could help them harness energy better. Readers gather what renewable fuel is and how sunlight, wind, rain, and waves can be great sources of energy.

Cool fact

This series falls under Pratham Books' initiative to build STEM literature for kids. As part of STEM with stories, they distributed STEM library kits to 2000 government schools and libraries in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu with support from the Karnataka State Rural Development and Panchayat Raj University and the Tamil Nadu Department of Education.

Cost Rs 80 (each title)
Available Leading bookstores and e-stores

"Exciting news! Mid-day is now on WhatsApp Channels Subscribe today by clicking the link and stay updated with the latest news!" Click here!
mumbai guide weekend guide things to do in mumbai Books Lifestyle news culture news environment Nature
Related Stories