Literature Reviews - 2025

Book Review: Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

Introduction

Aru Shah and the End of Time is the first book in The Pandava Quartet, a middle-grade fantasy series by Roshani Chokshi. Published in 2018 under the Rick Riordan Presents imprint, the novel draws inspiration from Hindu mythology, following the adventures of a twelve-year-old girl, Aru Shah, who unknowingly unleashes an ancient demon and must embark on a quest to save the world. With humor, adventure, and a fresh cultural perspective, the book has been widely compared to Percy Jackson, making it an accessible introduction to Indian mythology for young readers.

Plot Summary

Aru Shah, a middle-schooler, often stretches the truth to fit in with her wealthier classmates. During autumn break, she is stuck at the Museum of Ancient Indian Art and Culture, where her mother works, while her classmates enjoy lavish vacations. When some of them show up at the museum to catch her in a lie, they challenge her to prove that the Lamp of Bharata is cursed. Seeking to save face, Aru lights the lamp—only to accidentally awaken the Sleeper, an ancient demon bent on bringing destruction.

With her mother and classmates frozen in time, Aru learns she is the reincarnation of one of the Pandava brothers from the Mahabharata. She must find the other reincarnated Pandavas, journey to the Kingdom of Death, and prevent the Sleeper from awakening the God of Destruction. Armed with her wit, a new companion named Mini, and a talking pigeon named Boo, Aru embarks on a thrilling adventure filled with humor, mythology, and self-discovery.

Strengths of the Novel

1. Representation and Mythological Depth

One of the strongest aspects of Aru Shah and the End of Time is its #OwnVoices perspective on Hindu mythology. Roshani Chokshi brings Indian legends to life in a way that is engaging and educational without feeling like a textbook. The book provides an accessible gateway into the Mahabharata, making it an excellent resource for readers unfamiliar with Hindu epics.

Unlike Western retellings of mythology, which often focus on gods and warriors, this novel centers on everyday children who discover their divine lineage. The story integrates mythical creatures, deities, and legends seamlessly into a modern setting, creating a unique world reminiscent of Percy Jackson, but with its own distinct voice.

2. Engaging Protagonists and Character Dynamics

Aru Shah is a delightfully relatable heroine. She is flawed but endearing—her tendency to lie to fit in is both a source of humor and a deep insecurity that makes her character complex. She grows throughout the novel, learning the importance of honesty, courage, and self-acceptance.

Her companion, Mini, is an equally well-developed character. A hypochondriac with encyclopedic knowledge, Mini is the perfect foil to Aru’s impulsive nature. Their budding sisterhood (as fellow reincarnations of the Pandavas) is one of the most touching aspects of the story.

Boo, the talking pigeon (who is much more than he seems), adds comedic relief and provides guidance to the young heroines. His exasperation with Aru and Mini’s antics makes for entertaining dialogue.

3. Humor and Lighthearted Storytelling

Chokshi’s writing balances adventure with humor, making the book a joy to read. The characters’ banter is reminiscent of Rick Riordan’s style, and the book does not take itself too seriously. The infusion of pop culture references—such as Aru running around in Spider-Man pajamas—keeps the narrative fresh and relatable.

For example, the Night Market (a magical bazaar hidden inside a Costco) and a demon disguised as a hairdresser who steals people’s beauty add whimsical elements to the adventure. These creative touches ensure that the book remains entertaining for readers of all ages.

4. Fast-Paced Adventure with Strong World-Building

The novel is filled with thrilling challenges and unexpected twists. Each chapter introduces new mythical creatures, riddles, and obstacles that keep the story engaging. The world-building is immersive, blending ancient myths with modern settings in a way that feels organic.

The use of Indian mythology as the backbone of the adventure makes it stand out from other middle-grade fantasy books. The Kingdom of Death, the trials faced by the protagonists, and the reimagining of figures from the Mahabharata are handled with creativity and respect.

Criticisms of the Novel

1. Somewhat Predictable Plot

While the book is fun and engaging, it follows a familiar middle-grade fantasy structure: an unsuspecting protagonist discovers their hidden heritage, embarks on a quest, makes mistakes, but ultimately prevails. The similarities to Percy Jackson are undeniable—some readers might find the story too formulaic.

2. Humor That May Not Appeal to Everyone

Although the humor is a strong point for many readers, some found it too childish or forced at times. Certain jokes and dialogues may feel repetitive or exaggerated, which could be a drawback for older readers or those expecting a more serious fantasy tone.

3. Rushed Ending and Setup for Sequel

Several reviews noted that the ending felt slightly rushed. While the book effectively sets up the next installment in the series, some plot threads could have been resolved more smoothly. The final confrontation with the Sleeper, in particular, might feel underwhelming given the buildup.

4. Lack of Detailed Exposition on Mythology

Although the book is rich in mythological references, some readers unfamiliar with Hindu epics may find certain elements confusing. Unlike Riordan’s works, which often provide in-depth explanations of myths, Aru Shah and the End of Time assumes a certain level of familiarity. The glossary at the back helps, but a bit more exposition in the narrative could have been beneficial.

Final Verdict

Aru Shah and the End of Time is a fantastic middle-grade fantasy that successfully introduces Hindu mythology to a broad audience. With a relatable protagonist, strong female friendships, and a humorous yet heartfelt tone, it is an excellent choice for young readers who enjoy adventure stories.

Who Should Read This Book?

• Fans of Percy Jackson and Magnus Chase who want a fresh take on mythology.
• Readers looking for a diverse, #OwnVoices fantasy story.
• Middle-grade readers who enjoy humor, adventure, and strong character development.

Who Might Not Enjoy This Book?

• Readers looking for a highly original fantasy structure—this book follows a familiar hero’s journey
• Those who prefer serious, in-depth mythological storytelling rather than a lighthearted adventure.

Conclusion

While Aru Shah and the End of Time may not break new ground in terms of plot structure, it shines through its engaging characters, rich cultural representation, and whimsical storytelling. It is a strong start to The Pandava Quartet and sets up an exciting journey for the sequels. Whether you’re new to Hindu mythology or a longtime fan, this book offers a delightful adventure filled with magic, humor, and heart.