A rakhi for Rakesh

Gr 1--3--A heartfelt celebration of sibling bonds and the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan. The story follows Aashi and her older brother, Rakesh, as they navigate a rough patch in their relationship just before the holiday. When an accident leads to torn drawings and a broken toy, the siblings' frustrations threaten to overshadow their preparations. But as the full moon approaches, moments of reflection, a sincere gesture, and the traditions of Raksha Bandhan help them remember their love for each other. Salomon's warm narrative captures the ups and downs of sibling relationships with authenticity, while Ali's rich, detailed illustrations bring the cultural traditions to life. A glossary and a brief explanation of the festival provide valuable context for readers unfamiliar with the holiday. Fans of Kabir and Surishtha Sehgal's Festival of Colors and Aisha Saeed's Bilal Cooks Daal will appreciate this tender and visually striking addition to holiday collections. VERDICT A beautiful and culturally significant book that highlights the importance of family, forgiveness, and tradition.--Amanda Chacon

Two South Asian siblings resolve a conflict during Raksha Bandhan, a Hindu holiday devoted to celebrating the bond between brothers and sisters. Aashi loves her older brother, Rakesh…most of the time. The two play carrom (an Indian board game), pretend to be pirates, and ride their scooters in the evening as the fireflies flicker. Some days, though, their relationship is harder to navigate--like when Rakesh rips Aashi's favorite drawing (he claims it's an accident; she's skeptical) or when Aashi breaks Rakesh's toy submarine ("OOPS!That was an accident, too"). But their recent fight clouds their experience of Raksha Bandhan, a holiday they usually enjoy. On this day, sisters tie a rakhi (or bracelet) around their brothers' wrists, while brothers reciprocate by giving their sisters a gift, but today, neither is in the mood for loving gestures. But when they're unexpectedly separated after a scooter accident, the children realize how much they love one another. Luckily, they reach a resolution in time to exchange both a rakhi and a gift. Though some Hindus have critiqued Raksha Bandhan for its patriarchal roots (the act of tying a bracelet is said to signify a boy's willingness to safeguard his sisters or other female relatives), the story avoids mention of protection. Ali's bright, detailed illustrations rely on dramatic perspectives and angles and expressive characters, pairing well with Salomon's clear, efficiently told text. A tender tale of siblings making amends. (more information on Raksha Bandhan, glossary, online resources)(Picture book. 3-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.