In this critically-acclaimed book inspired by the author’s hometown of Chennai, India, a girl explores the vibrant rainbow of delights in a southern Indian street market as she searches for a gift for her amma (mother). Educational endnotes explain all the items on sale and introduce readers to markets around the world.
AUTHENTIC: Set in the author’s hometown of Chennai in Southern India and is based on her many visits to the local markets.
CULTURAL AWARENESS: Readers are immersed in a sensory experience of spices, sights and sounds as they learn about the foods, markets and customs of Southern India.
COLOR IDENTIFICATION: Each spread is saturated with a specific color and focuses on market wares of that hue.
EMPATHY: The girl must consider many options at the market and think about what her amma (mother) would most like as a gift.
EDUCATIONAL ENDNOTES: Endnotes provide information about the items for sale at the market and markets around the world. Also includes photos from the author’s visits to the market on which the story is based.
More Details
Product Dimensions:8.50 x 10.75 inches
Page Count:32 pages
Age Range:Ages 4-9 years
Awards & Accolades
Tejas Star Reading List, 2021-2022
Premio Campoy-Ada Honorable Mention, 2022
About the Contributors
Written by - Meera Sriram
Meera Sriram grew up in India and moved to the U.S in 1999. An engineer in the past, she now enjoys writing, leading early literacy programs and advocating for diverse bookshelves. Meera is the author of The Yellow Suitcase and has also co-authored several books in India. She believes in the transformative power of stories and likes to write about people, places and experiences less visible in children's literature.
Illustrated by - Mariona Cabassa
Mariona Cabassa is a native of Catalonia, Spain, who has illustrated nearly 100 children’s books. She studied at art school in Barcelona, followed by further research in Strasbourg, France. Her many years of working as an illustrator, painter, installation maker, and tattoo artist reflect her fascination with form and her desire to explore different palettes. Mariona’s technique combines water-based paints, pencils, and a digital touch to create rich and vibrant illustrations.
