Punita Rice

Research, Writing, and Books by Punita Rice

I examine how identity, culture, and perception shape experiences. Whether I'm writing about South Asian American experiences in schools, or writing dystopian romantasy, my work sits at the intersection of research and lived experience.

This page lists out some of my recent writing projects across categories.

Novels

The Rivers Daughter by Punita Rice

The River's Daughter

Amazon #1 Bestseller in Asian Myth & Legend

A romantic fantasy exploring identity, power, and inherited legacy.
The River Goddess: A Prequel of Gods and Mortals and the legend of Naga. Prequel to The River's Daughter by Punita Rice

The River Goddess: A Prequel

Out everywhere April 2026

A gods and mortal myth, set before The River's Daughter.

Guides

Write & Self-Publish a Children's Book

Write & Self Publish a Children's Book in 7 Days

A step-by-step guide for parents and creators to write, format, and publish a children’s book using Canva and Amazon KDP.
Toddler Weaning: A Practical Guide to Gradually Weaning Your Toddler

Toddler Weaning

A practical, supportive guide for mothers navigating the transition away from breastfeeding.

Children’s Books

A series of educational, story-driven books designed to help young readers explore language, emotions, and the world around them.

The Adventures of Hunny & Sunny

The Book of Funny Words (Book 5)

Hunny & Sunny Learn About Idioms (Book 4)

Sunny Goes to Kindergarten (Book 3)

Hunny & Sunny Learn the Planets of Our Solar System (Book 2)

Hunny Goes to Swimming Class (Book 1)

Education and Society

My research and public scholarship focus on South Asian American student experiences, teacher cultural proficiency, and the impact of everyday interactions in schools.

Brown Voices

South Asian American Experiences in Schools
South Asian American Experiences in Schools: Brown Voices from the Classroom (rereleasing in 2026 as Brown Voices: South Asian American Experiences in Schools) is based on research conducted through Johns Hopkins University’s School of Education. The book explores how South Asian American students experience school environments—particularly in relation to cultural assumptions and the model minority myth.

It combines narrative accounts with quantitative research to examine how students are supported, misunderstood, and shaped by educational systems.

…a must-read not only for South Asian American students and educators, but also for anyone who teaches or works in higher education today… has brought crucial attention to the complex realities of being a Brown student in American schools.

Ajay Nair, President, Arcadia University

Selected Writing & Publications

Get a free bonus scene for The River's Daughter, plus early access to all Brown Voices interviews

Punita Rice

Copyright © 2026 Punita Rice | All rights reserved