Reviews

Binny's Diwali by Thrity Umrigar

afro8921's review against another edition

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4.0

This picture book is a wonderful introduction to the hindu tradition of Diwali. The illustrations are beautiful and the text matches with them perfectly.

locolibrarian's review against another edition

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4.0

Such a fun story about learning about new cultures!

constantcatreader's review against another edition

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4.0

Such a fun story about learning about new cultures!

ahayesthroughthebooks's review

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inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

5.0

maweets's review against another edition

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4.0

A lovely story about Binny who shares Diwali with her classmates via a show & tell. The illustrations are bright and cheerful. The story is a good example to younger readers about how exciting it can be to share your own culture and traditions with others. I liked how the story acknowledges how it can be a bit anxiety-inducing to put yourself out there like how Binny did at show & tell- the fear of "othering" oneself is real. But the rewards of building a stronger, more vibrant community are worth it.

mckenzierichardson's review against another edition

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4.0

For more bookish thoughts, see my blog: Craft-Cycle

A sweet story of one girl's victory of goodness and light. Binny is tasked with sharing her favorite holiday with her class, Diwali. Plans are set, jalebis and pedas are made, but when it comes time to present, Binny doesn't know what to say. Remembering the the guiding lights of the diyas, Binny overcomes her fear and shares the beauty of Diwali with her class.

A lovely book that shares some aspects of Diwali such as making rangoli, watching fireworks, giving gifts, and lighting diyas. At the end of the book is more information about the festival including one of the origin stories of Prince Rama and the demon-king Ravana and a breakdown of the five days of Diwali.

The illustrations are absolutely beautiful. Each pages shines with its own light. A perfect accompaniment to this story about the Festival of Lights. Heartwarming and delightful.

abigailbat's review against another edition

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Binny is excited to share about her favorite holiday Diwali with her classmates at school. She tells them about the oil lamps and the sparkling fireworks that celebrate the Hindu festival of lights. This is a beautiful book and a good choice to introduce this holiday to children.

augustgreatsword's review against another edition

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informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

libraryrobin's review against another edition

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4.0

A delightful story of a young girl sharing her favorite holiday with her classmates, followed by a retelling of the story of Prince Rama's victory over the evil Ravana.

ekimball's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

5.0