Stories from India

It's never too late to learn.

Every morning, a young girl walks her grandmother to the Aajibaichi Shala, the school that was built for the grandmothers in her village to have a place to learn to read and write. The narrator beams with pride as she drops her grandmother off with the other aajis to practice the alphabet and learn simple arithmetic. A moving story about family, women and the power of education—when Aaji learns to spell her name you’ll want to dance along with her.

Women in countless countries continue to endure the limitations of illiteracy. Unjust laws have suppressed the rights of girls and women and kept many from getting an education and equal standing in society. Based on a true story from the village of Phangane, India, this brilliantly illustrated book tells the story of the grandmothers who got to go to school for the first time in their lives.

Educator Information
Recommended for ages 6-8.

Based on a true story from Phangane village in India's Maharashtra state where grandmothers attend the Aajibaichi Shala (school for grandmothers). For many of them, this has been their first time in a classroom.

Explores how important education is, especially for girls and women who have historically been left behind.

Subjects / Themes / Keywords: India, village, female literacy, intergenerational, power of education, multigenerational, family

Additional Information
32 pages | 8.75" x 10.75"

During Diwali, Hindus, Sikhs and Jains celebrate the legends and stories that describe the triumph of good over evil and justice over oppression. Critically acclaimed author Rina Singh explores her Indian roots as she tells the Diwali stories, which remind us that eventually light will prevail over darkness.

Enriched by personal stories and spiced with festive recipes, including two by acclaimed chef, Vikram Vij, Diwali: Festival of Lights brings to life the holiday’s traditions, food and rituals and takes you on a journey to see how this festival is celebrated around the world!

Diwali is the second book in the Orca Origins series, which examines how ancient traditions are kept alive in the modern world.

Reviews
"This sophisticated volume incorporates information about the major Indian religions; Hindu, Sikh, and Jain Diwali traditions; and Indian immigration to the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean...An exceptionally valuable resource." — Kirkus Reviews

"A standout volume...an excellent introduction to Diwali and Indian culture, highly recommended for all geography collections." — School Library Journal

"Provides a remarkably comprehensive look at the origins of the Hindu festival of lights...The intimate tone and vibrant photographs make this book an enjoyable and informative read from start to finish. Young readers will love the photographs, and older ones will appreciate the joy and concept of a celebration of light." — Booklist

"Written in a very readable text accompanied by colourful historical and contemporary captioned photographs...This book would be a great compliment to a study of religious customs and multiculturalism...I would highly recommend it for inclusion in school and public libraries." — Resource Links

Educator & Series Information
This book is part of the Orca Origins series that explores cultural celebrations throughout the world.

Recommended for ages 9-12.

Additional Information
96 pages | 7.50" x 9.00"