Diya Dances the Dandiya


Children - Picture Book
35 Pages
Reviewed on 05/04/2024
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite

Diya Dances the Dandiya is a lovely children's story by Pria Dee. Donning her lehenga and choli, Diya is ready to dance at the Navaratri Celebration. She realizes her favorite silver anklets are missing when she can't find them in her bag. She runs from room to room, determined to find her anklets before it's time to dance. She asks her family members and a friend about the jewelry, but they haven't seen it. Her sister tries to help Diya locate her anklets, but they have no luck. Finally, Diya loses hope of performing in her costume and readies herself to leave, but sometimes things can be found in unlikely places. The author includes a glossary of terms for young readers to explore after they finish the book.

Pria Dee immerses her readers in Hindu culture. Diya is excited about dancing while her silver anklets tinkle, and readers can feel her disappointment as the story continues. The book is a good selection for exploring empathy, as children can think of a time when they lost something and can relate their experience to the little girl's feelings in the story. Children will learn a lot about traditional Hindu dress and food as they read, familiarizing themselves with the culture without feeling like they are studying it. The glossary provides details about the names, clothes, culture, and food, showing how the author placed them specifically throughout the story. Diya Dances the Dandiya is a great book for children who love to dance and also enjoy books with strong cultural significance.