Review: NEEV and BUDDHA

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This book has been reviewed by my 12-year-old daughter Ayesha.

Theme: Time travel, teamwork, courage, and ancient wisdom

October is normally the time when our school gives us group projects. And lo & behold – I receive this book which deals with group projects right at the time when I have to lead one. So I just loved this book.

Summary of the Story

Neev is a bright student who prefers working alone. He thinks group projects are a waste of time and believes he can do everything better by himself. But when his teacher assigns a group project on Gautama Buddha, Neev is forced to team up with classmates—and that’s where the real adventure begins.

One night, something magical happens. Neev is transported back in time to ancient India, where he meets Buddha himself. But Buddha doesn’t just chat with him—he gives Neev a mission: help a scholar named Dharamjeet reach his home safely. The journey is full of danger, mystery, and magical creatures. Neev must face a powerful sorcerer, cross forests, and solve tricky problems. Most importantly, he must learn to trust others and work as a team.

What Makes This Book Special?

• Time Travel with a Twist: The book mixes history with fantasy. Students learn about Buddha’s teachings while enjoying a thrilling adventure.
• Relatable Hero: Neev is not perfect. He’s smart but stubborn. His journey teaches children that it’s okay to make mistakes—as long as you learn from them.
• Emotional Growth: Neev starts off proud and lonely. By the end, he understands the value of friendship, kindness, and teamwork.
• Simple Language, Big Ideas: The story is easy to read but full of deep lessons—perfect for classroom discussions.
• Illustrations : The book has ample illustrations to which help to connect more to the story.

Lessons from Buddha in the Story

• Compassion is strength: Buddha teaches Neev that helping others is more powerful than fighting them.
• Let go of ego: Neev learns that pride can block learning. Working with others opens new doors.
• Face fear with calm: Even when things get scary, staying calm and thinking clearly helps.

Why Students Will Enjoy It?

• It’s like a movie in your mind—full of action, magic, and emotion.
• The characters feel real. Students will see bits of themselves in Neev.
• It’s not preachy. The lessons come through the story, not lectures.
• It’s perfect for group reading, role play, or even a classroom debate on “Why teamwork matters.”

Final Thoughts

Neev and Buddha is more than just a story. It’s a journey into the past, a mirror for the present, and a guide for the future. It shows that even the smartest person needs others—and that true wisdom comes from kindness, courage, and learning together.

So , if you have a group project to submit – grab this book and enjoy the adventure.

Other books by the same author can be found here.

If you enjoyed this review and wish to buy the book from kbc’s storefront on Scholastic India’s website , please type NEEV in search after clicking this red button.

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Disclaimer: Ayesha is part of the #kbcReviewerSquad and received this book as a review copy from the publisher via kbc.