Himalaya: The Wonders of the Mountains that Touch the Sky by Soledad Romero Mariño and illustrated by María Beorlegi (Orange Mosquito, 2022). Himalaya, (or jimālaia in Sanskrit), means “abode of snow” is a rich non-fiction book that provides a factual examination of the Himalayas. Himalaya is focused on a specific area of the mountainous range that runs throughout China, India, and Nepal. With beautifully illustrated representations of the regional cultures, readers can examine the history and legends across the various communities. This book may serve as a wonderful reference book for K-12 educators, and also provides a source of adventure for readers as part of a classroom library, or can be used as a picture walk with younger readers to explore different areas around the world, featuring positive and historically accurate representations of South Asians. This book provides many opportunities for readers of different ages. (Grades 1-3)
Award Status: Winner, 2023
Award Category: Middle Grade Readers
Author: Soledad Romero Mariño
Illustrator: María Beorlegi