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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, BlueSky, and Goodreads. 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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