In this beautiful children’s picture book by Vivek Shraya, author of the acclaimedGod Loves Hair, a five-year-old South Asian boy becomes fascinated with his mother’s bindi, the red dot commonly worn by Hindu women to indicate the point at which creation begins, and wishes to have one of his own. Rather than chastise her son, she agrees to it, and teaches him about its cultural significance, allowing the boy to discover the magic of the bindi, which in turn gives him permission to be more fully himself.
Beautifully illustrated by Rajni Perera,The Boy & the Bindiis a joyful celebration of gender and cultural difference.
Vivek Shrayais a writer, musician, performer, and filmmaker. His body of work includes twelve albums, four short films, and four books which includeGod Loves Hair,She of the Mountains, andeven this page is white. He has read and performed at shows, festivals, and post-secondary institutions internationally. He lives in Toronto.
Rajni Pererais a Sri Lankan-born artist whose internationally showcased work floats between Western and immigrant culture. She lives in Toronto.
The easy rhyming and vivid colors make this an unforgettable look into Hindu culture. Kirkus Reviews
Suitable as a gentle introduction to Hindu culture, this simple reflection will complement multicultural collections. The beautiful and detailed illustrations, such as those of Ammi's traditional dress and jewelry, provide additional cultural context. Booklist
Shraya's story defines and affirms important values of Hindu culture -- and nudges gender norms, as well. Publishers Weekly
The story is simple but incredibly touching and the words are accompanied by the most vibrant illustrations, ones that truly suit the vibrancy of South Asian culture. This may also be a great book to reach for when introducing Hinduism to anyone who is clc›