One of several titles in the Sleeping Bear Press series, Tales of the World, this thoughtful selection introduces children to current-day culture in India.

Young Kumar feels as though he lives in two worlds: the old India where people lived according to their caste, and the new world where laws have abolished that caste discrimination and bigotry. Upon being invited to his friend’s house to watch fireworks, Kumar is especially pleased to be included since his friend is from a high-caste Brahmin family. But when Kumar arrives, his friend’s grandmother abruptly sends him away. Insulted and angry, Kumar returns home to the fortunate and wise words of his grandfather.

A sensitive and accurate portrayal of some of the social struggles that take place in India today, this choice is ultimately one of hope.