Bound To Stay Bound

Booklist - 05/01/2024 A Bindi Can Be . . . refutes the idea that this familiar forehead dot is merely decorative or merely a dot. Readers learn that there are many different names, designs, and levels of significance to a bindi. Told from the perspective of a little girl learning about this aspect of her culture, the straightforward narrative with complementary illustrations educates readers about the making and wearing of the bindi. The author’s note adds much-needed context so that readers learn about the bindi’s religious and symbolic significance endemic to many South Asian cultures. A glossary provides pronunciation guides and brief explanations of the variety of names for the bindi depending on geography and culture. Can be paired thematically with Anu Chouhan's Hair Oil Magic (2024), Zain Bandali's Mehndi Boy (2023), Lynnor Bontigao's Sari-Sari Summers (2023), and Rajani LaRocca's Masala Chai, Fast and Slow (2023) for further exploration of some South Asian traditions. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.