In 1947, Nek Chand began building a Rock Garden in Chandigarh, India, using natural and discarded manmade materials, including broken glass, porcelain from chipped sinks, old bicycles and rusty pipes. Readers will learn of Chand’s marvelous creations in this picture book biography with detailed illustrations and a gatefold photograph. (Grades 2-5)
Young Readers
Priya Dreams of Marigolds and Masala
Priya asks her beloved Babi Ba, “What is India like?” as they stand side-by-side preparing the evening meal. Babi Ba tells Priya of her India – the sights, sounds, and smells. And, Priya, in return, discovers how to bring India to her Babi Ba. (Grades K-2)
Dancing in Thatha’s Footsteps
Thatha takes his granddaughter Varsha to weekly bharatanatyam classical dance lessons while her brother, Varun, tags along. Unexpectedly, the rhythm draws Varun in, but amid spirit crushing comments he’s uncertain that dance is for boys until Thatha shows his dance moves and reveals his past as a dancer in India. (Grades PK-2)