FICTION

A Bindi Can Be...

by Suma Subramaniam (text) & illus. by Kamala Nair
Kids Can. May 2024. 32p. Tr $21.99. ISBN 9781525308031.
COPY ISBN
K-Gr 3–A young girl and her paati (Tamil for grandmother) work together to create the mixture that becomes the dot worn between her eyes to honor her culture and “to celebrate life in all its fullness.” Bright and beautiful colors swirl across pages with relatively short and very accessible text to explain all the ways a bindi can be an expression of religious or cultural significance. A multitude of languages are referenced, showcasing the wide embrace of the bindi throughout Indian and other South Asian cultures. Back matter adds further details, including a very useful glossary.
VERDICT A beautiful introduction to a mark and decoration of enormous cultural significance makes this title recommended for all collections.
Reviewed by John Scott , Jun 01, 2024

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