Presenting the shortlisted titles for the fifth Green Honour Book Awards 2025. What began as an attempt to celebrate green writing in India grew in scope and reach, thanks to our supporters and you, dear reader.

Fiction/Nonfiction

Curated by journalist and literary critic Chintan Girish Modi, this year’s shortlist marks a powerful shift towards advocacy, ecological awareness, and the urgent fight for environmental justice in a rapidly changing world. From brave investigations to emphasising equality in climate action, these books help a reader understand the multidimensional aspects of climate conversations.

‘This shortlist is a celebration of the thoughtful, rigorous and intellectually stimulating work produced by writers who care deeply about the environment as well as human wellbeing. It was an honour to read these books and be dazzled by the labour and creativity that have gone into shaping them. May they travel far and wide, and inspire readers all over India to think expansively and act responsibly,’ says Chintan.

Children’s Literature

Curated by author and academic Chatura Rao, this year’s shortlist takes young readers on a journey to the hinterlands and urban corners of India, to the heart of the communities where kinship is revered, helping children connect meaningfully with the planet and the people at the forefront of conservation.

‘I am so grateful to have spent weeks immersed in the vast and varied space of green literature for children. I learnt a lot about nature and ecology while reading these books. The list comprises stories and tales told through playful and evocative text and gorgeous illustrations that will appeal to many child and adult readers. These narratives will help us look more warmly and closely at our more-than-human companions on this planet and at ourselves in the context of the natural world,’ says Chatura Rao.

Green Business

Curated by Benedict Paramanand, founder of Greenlitfest, this year’s selection highlights books that explore innovative, critical, and urgent perspectives on climate, sustainability, and green entrepreneurship.