This spellbinding novel narrated by a witty and keenly observant aspiring writer, teenager Tamara de Silva, unravels family and community secrets while detailing the role of astrology, match matchers, and scheming Aunties’ efforts to marry off her eligible bachelor uncle, all amid the cultural and political atmosphere of the times.
family
American as Paneer Pie
Lekha, the only Indian American kid in her small town, feels like she must be two versions of herself. At school she is embarrassed by her Indian culture and tries to avoid hurtful comments from classmates. But when a new Indian family moves into town, Lekha rethinks her approach.
Chandra’s Magic Light: A Story in Nepal
Living in a traditional village in Nepal, young sisters pick and sell flowers at the market to earn money to buy a solar lamp which will help the air quality in their home. Soft complimentary illustrations. Excellent end notes. (Grades K-3)
Pashmina
Priyanka Das is perpetually curious about her mother’s homeland of India, why she left, and most importantly, who her father is, but Pri’s mom is close-lipped on these topics. One day, Pri discovers a mysterious pashmina in a suitcase which, when wrapped around herself, transports her to an idealized version of India, but shadows lurking in the background may hold the answers she seeks. (Grades 3-6)
Iqbal and His Ingenious Idea
What would it be like to use a broken umbrella to win a school science fair? Watch Iqbal help his family find a way to cook their food without using an open fire at their home in Bangladesh. Hear the monsoon rain, the wind, and baby Rupa’s cough from breathing the smoke from the fire. Use the glossary and the do-it-yourself activity, too! (Grades 3-7)
The Eleventh Trade
Sami’s grandfather’s rebab, an Afghan instrument, is stolen while it’s in Sami’s care. Since it’s necessary for their livelihood, the boy must figure out how to buy it back from the shop where it was pawned. He begins by making trades with fellow students, but will that be enough to get the instrument back? (Grades 5-8)
Across the Line
Toshi and her six-year-old brother Tarlok are separated during the violent riots following partition in India which divided the country as well as families, creating profound loss. Sixty years later, the discovery of a diary offers insight while a chance meeting provides healing and understanding. (Grades 6 and up)
A Thousand Questions
Mimi is spending the summer in Karachi and learns about the city and the culture through the eyes of Sakina, who works at Mimi’s grandparents’ house. Sakina wants to attend a school and needs to improve her English, and helps Mimi find her dad. A heartfelt and delightful book about two girls from different worlds, of friendships and families. (Grades 3-6)
Where Three Oceans Meet
Sejal, Mommy and Pati travel to Kanyakumari, the coastal town where three oceans meet, on India’s southern tip. On this wonderful intergenerational journey, they visit friends, devour tasty foods, and explore the country which connects them. (PreK-Grade 3)
Maya
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)