Chitra Soundar
Lately I have been speaking to my students about the importance of books from different cultures. I explained to them that they will often find books in our library with students who come from different places, and live different lives than what they are familiar with. We have discussed the beauty and power in acceptance, and celebrating differences. These kindergarteners through fourth graders were excited to learn more. They listen to stories with open hearts and open minds. If only everyone would be willing to do that, what a different world we would live in.
"The moon and the other stars don't get angry about new stars. Our family is just like that."
3 out of 5 Stars
Sona is an Indian girl whose life is about to change. Amma and Appa are expecting a new baby soon, and that means that Sona will no longer be the only child. She is anxious and upset about how much everyone is talking about thew new baby. Sona has never had to share before, and she doesn't want to. She doesn't want to share her family. She doesn't want to share the clothes and toys from when she was a baby. Will Sona be able to embrace her new role as a big sister, or will she resent the new baby forever?
A charming story from the viewpoint of a young child. Sona Sharma is a character that I am sure lots of new big brothers and big sisters will be able to relate to. This has an early reader chapter book feel to it, though children will be introduced to lots of new vocabulary. The author does a great job of introducing characters with the new vocabulary at the beginning of the book, to help the reader understand the relationships. She also includes a glossary at the end of the book, though she does a wonderful job of using context clues to help young readers comprehend the new vocabulary right within the text. Well written by Chitra Soundar, and beautifully illustrated throughout by Jen Khatun.
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