My Bindi

Ages 4 to 8, Grades P to 3

In this universal story about embracing who we are and where we come from, a young girl finds the magic, power, and history of wearing a bindi for the first time, in this moving and lyrical picture book debut from Gita Varadarajan.There in the mirror, I see a shining star.My mother’s joy, my father’s pride.And then I see something else:I see me.Divya is scared to put on the bindi for the first time. What if she gets made fun of? What will it feel like? But Amma assures her that her bindi will bring protection. After Divya looks inside Amma’s special box to find the perfect bindi to put on, she gazes in the mirror and discovers a new side of herself, and it gives her strength.In this tender debut picture book, author Gita Varadarajan crafts a powerful story about belonging, embracing your heritage, and believing in yourself. Archana Sreenivasan's vibrant and magical illustrations bring to life this journey of self-discovery. My Bindi is a universal message of the importance finding oneself and celebrating the unique beliefs and experiences that make us who we are.

About the Author

Gita Varadarajan was born and raised in India. She has worked with children all over the world, and now teaches second grade in Princeton, New Jersey. Save Me a Seat, written with Sarah Weeks, was her first novel.

Archana Sreenivasan is a freelance illustrator based in Bangalore, India. Her illustrations have been published in magazines, children's books, book covers, and comics. She finds the natural world and people watching most inspiring and engaging.