Written By: Mamta Nainy

Illustrated by: Niloufer Wadia

For Ages: 4-8 years

Language: English

Topics Covered: Gender Roles, Stereotypes, Indian Cultures, Bakarwal, Kashmir, India, Family.

Summary: Sadiq is a young boy who lives with his Ammi in the Kashmir valley. They are part of the nomadic Bakarwal community, known for herding goats and sheep as well as finely embroidered rugs, wall-hangings and other objects.

Sadiq loves to help his mother embroider, but she is less than thrilled about it because of the heavily gendered roles their community has. Sadiq tends to their herds because his father died two years ago, and his Ammi embroiders while he’s away. When she gets sick and cannot finish an order, Sadiq decides to take action.

This book is lovely for several reasons. I learned a lot about a community I had never heard of, and the story is useful for starting discussions about gender stereotypes and gender roles. It discusses parental acceptance and reviving a dying art, the embroidery skills the Bakarwal’s are known for. As an advocate for breaking down stereotypes, I believe these discussions about traditions rooted in gender-specific activities can be helpful in discussing how limiting they can be, especially for those who desire to break free and just do something they love.

This book was kindly sent to us by Publisher Spotlight, and published by Karadi Tales. All opinions are my own!