
Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?
Chitra Soundar, Author
Jen Khatun, Illustrator
Candlewick Press, Fiction, Sep. 14, 2021
Suitable for ages: 6- 9
Themes: New baby, Big sister, Hindu religion, Naming ceremony, Indian culture,
Publisher’s Synopsis:
Can Sona be the best big sister ever when she’s not sure she even wants a baby sister or brother?
Sona Sharma’s house is full of three generations of people who joke often and argue sometimes. Relatives come over unannounced, the phone rings frequently, and friends drop by all the time. Then one day Amma tells Sona that she is going to have a baby.
Is that good? Sona isn’t so sure. She doesn’t want to share her room or her things with a new baby, not to mention the attention of Amma, Appa, Thatha, and Paatti. And despite Amma’s assurance that the sky always has room for new stars, Sona doesn’t feel stretchy or bighearted like the sky. But when she learns there will be a baby-naming ceremony, she’s determined to find the best name for her new brother or sister—one as nice as her own, a Hindi word for “gold.” Perfectly pitched to young readers, this tale of warming up to change is followed by a glossary of words from India to explore in the story.
Why I like this book:
This is a perfect chapter book for young readers who about to become a big sister/brother. A charming story that can be read aloud or alone. It addresses the issue of being an only child and welcoming a new baby. Sona likes being the center of everyone’s attention and is not so sure she wants to share that with a new sibling. Especially since she lives in a typical extended Hindu family with a lot of grandparents and aunts and uncles around.
The book is particularly special because it will teach readers all about the custom of welcoming a Hindu baby in India. Readers will observe how the entire family gets involved in the upcoming birth. And they will learn about the wonderful naming ceremony for the baby — the highlight of the story. I was not familiar with the name ceremony and was very intrigued with the meaning of finding the right name. The ceremony involves the parents and grandparents on both sides of the family.
Each page is adorned with sweet pen and ink illustrations that highlight India’s culture, food and traditions. I especially like the layout of the book with seven chapters, each bearing an important theme in the story. This chapter book is a lovely addition to any school library, and it may inspire families to create or share some of their own family traditions about the birth of a child.
Chitra Soundar grew up in Chennai, India. An award-winning author of more than forty books for children, she travels the world visiting schools and appearing at festivals to bring Indian stories to children everywhere. She lives in London.
Greg Pattridge hosts Marvelous Middle Grade Monday posts on his wonderful Always in the Middle website. Check out the link to see all of the wonderful reviews by KidLit bloggers and authors.
*Review copy provided by Candlewick Press in exchange for a review.
How cool that this story features the Hindu traditions of naming a baby. It sounds like a great chapter book. Thanks for featuring it this week.
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It really makes this story very special, especially since Shona can be part of it.
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A house full of people … and adding more. Sounds like the perfect setting for conflict. Thanks, Patricia, for sharing this book.
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It’s all about family and Hindu traditions! Lovely chapter book.
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I love that the book includes some cultural traditions. Welcoming a new sibling is never easy for a child. I recall when mom brought home my baby brother when I was almost 4. I wasn’t sure I liked the idea of sharing mom, dad, grandparents etc. I told him about that just the other day and we had a laugh. Many children will identify with the main character.
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Great theme for a story. Having a new baby in the house is a concern for many kids. Love the included traditions and the main character. Thanks for featuring on MMGM.
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You’re welcome, Greg. It is a great theme for a chapter book because so many kids will identify. The traditions just really make this one a stand out!
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This sounds like a great read, Patricia! I can definitely understand Sona’s worries about having a new baby brother who might take up too much attention, but I can also see how she might get excited to have a new sibling in the first place! And the naming ceremony sounds like a wonderful tradition to explore and learn about. Thanks so much for the great review, and happy Thanksgiving!
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Her conflict resolves at the time for the naming ceremony begins. Such a sweet and important story about family and traditions.
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Gosh, this sounds good. I love the idea of a naming ceremony. What a lovely tradition. I think youngsters will really enjoy learning about this interesting culture and can relate to expanding families. Thanks for your review.
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Yes, that’s why I wanted to review this story. I knew nothing about the naming ceremonies. I’m sure they are in many other cultures. It was so special!
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This one sounds interesting. It’s nice to find books like this for early readers.
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