Written by: Chitra Soundar
Illustrated by: Charlene Chua
For ages: 3-5 years
Language: English & some Hindi (more is in the Diwali information after the story)
Topics Covered: Culture & Traditions, Celebration, Global Community, Hindu, Religion, India, Indian Culture, POC-Centric Narratives.
Summary: Shubh Diwali is a short rhyming book introducing Diwali and the celebrations that accompany the 5 day festival. The plot follows the preparations of a family getting ready for Diwali, and then celebrating with their friends and neighbors.
The family cleans the house, make beautiful Rangoli art on the floors, and get new clothes. The adorable illustrations show a diverse neighborhood celebrating together, gathering in the streets to share treats and watch fireworks. In the back is an author’s note talking about her own experience celebrating Diwali while growing up in southern India. There are also more detailed explanations of each of the 5 days of Diwali, and a short glossary of the Hindi words used throughout the book. This book is super cute, and I love the illustration style. A great introduction to the holiday for young readers unfamiliar with Diwali!
About the Author & the Illustrator:
Chitra Soundar is a closet clown, consummate liar, writer, teacher and storyteller. As a kid, she has danced in a Bollywood movie, acted on stage with her neighbourhood friends and disliked Maths because it never added up. Chitra grew up on a wholesome diet of stories from Indian myths and epics. Born in the coastal city Chennai, in India, she now lives in London, England. She has over 30 books in print worldwide. In the UK she’s published by Lantana Publishing, Otter-Barry Books, Walker Books and Red Robin Books. In the US, she’s published by Candlewick Press and her other books are distributed by Karadi Tales USA and Lerner Publishing.
