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Loved it! 😍
Due to the reading and comprehension level, I think this story would be perfect for school-age children.
Little Diya misplaced her anklets
just before her dance performance.
She could not possibly dance without
them tinkling with her steps.
Read Diya’s story as she goes on a
hasty treasure hunt with her little
brother Ramu.
Will they find the anklets on time?
When I began reading Diya Dances the Dandiya by Pria Dee, I noticed there were words that even I (an adult) had no clue their meaning. I was wondering how children would be able to understand the cultural terms. First, I had no idea that Navaratri is a biannual and one of the most revered Hindu festivals observed in honor of Mother Goddess Durga until I quickly searched on Wikipedia for details. Other words escaped me due to growing up in different countries with different customs/celebrations: choli, jhumka, kurta, bindi, dupatta, and laddu.
At the start of the book, there was no indication that any glossary existed. After finishing the story, I discovered there was a "Hindi Glossary - Names," " "Hindi Glossary - Culture," and " "Hindi Glossary - Food." I suggest the author make a note of the glossary for future readers.
For people who use a kindle, it'll be more challenging to use the dictionary when attempting to hold a little one's interest. I think the glossary wasn't intended for 2-5 years olds. Heads up, Amazon has this book reading audience starting at 2. Much of the text is over a preschooler's head unless they are familiar with Hindi culture. However, younger children will love the illustrations by YoungJu Kim. They were quite lovely. Due to the reading and comprehension level, I think this story would be perfect for school-age children.
I did love Diya Dances the Dandiya's plotline. It was a cute story and taught this old(er) woman something new, which is always appreciated. As a society, we should be learning about everyone's culture, embracing our differences, and celebrating what makes us special.
Finally, I have never eaten samosas or laddu, but I'm encouraged to try those with my family. As a southern woman, we like sweet tea, but I am open to trying chia (tea with milk).
Reviewed by
I've been constructing reviews for over a decade and don't plan on stopping anytime soon. Most of the reviews will be featured on my blog (Kam's Place), Pinterest, Instagram, Goodreads, and X (formerly Twitter.) Don't forget to tip your waitress! :D
Synopsis
Little Diya misplaced her anklets
just before her dance performance.
She could not possibly dance without
them tinkling with her steps.
Read Diya’s story as she goes on a
hasty treasure hunt with her little
brother Ramu.
Will they find the anklets on time?
About the author
I am an Indian-American author who lives in the USA I have written several children’s books based on my own experiences and observations. I love animals and children and write to combine both my passions. view profile
Published on September 01, 2022
0-1000 words
Worked with a Reedsy professional 🏆
Genre: Picture Books
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