Summary
This inclusive story is about Veer, who just moved from India to America and feels nervous about starting his new school. On his first day, Veer finds comfort in the traditional Indian foods that his mother packs him because they remind him of home in India. However, Veer’s comfort turns into worry because he fears his new classmates will make judgment of his food. Luckily, Veer meets new friends who are kind and curious about his unfamiliar food and wants to learn more about his food and Veer.
Theme(s):
Struggles against pressures of society, Courage/Bravery, Family, Friendship, and Traditions
Personal Response
I found this book to be very inspirational because of the diversity and inclusion that the story represents. Also, I appreciated the author’s choice of having Veer’s new friends be curious about his traditional foods from home and make connections to their own traditions. The book was a window book for me, and I felt Veer’s feelings of nervousness as I read. Thus, this means this book can be a beautiful mirror and window book for other children who are experiencing the same journey as Veer.
Teaching Ideas
I would integrate this book in a variety of areas of the curriculum by having my students participate in creating a classroom recipe book, where each student can share a traditional family recipe. This creation of a recipe book could be used across all subjects for students. Also, I would use this book to nurture empathy and have students interview their choice of friends and/or family members about their favorite foods from their culture which they can present and share with the whole class.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02
