Maya by Mahak Jain; illustrated by Elly MacKay (Owlkids Books, 2016). The loss of her father and a blackout in her Indian city combine to distress Maya. Her mother’s bedtime tale of a legendary banyan tree kindles the child’s imagination, bringing her comfort and soothing memories of her father. Alluring illustrations of the lush dream landscape and animals Maya visualizes will engage readers. (Grades K-3)
Award Status: Winner, 2017
Award Category: Young Readers
Author: Mahak Jain
Illustrator: Elly MacKay
Read more and purchase on the author’s website.