Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister?

A charming story about becoming a big sister.

Gr 1-3--The tapestry of Sona's life is woven with the people of her vibrant, bustling multigenerational Indian family: her parents, Amma and Appa; her grandparents Thatha, Paatti, and the President; and her stuffed elephant, who is called, much to his chagrin, Elephant. Sona's life is about to change as her parents prepare to welcome a baby. And Sona, like many first-time older siblings, is feeling a variety of emotions. Will she have to leave her home and live with her maternal grandmother, the President, as Amma awaits the new baby? Will Sona be able to share her parents' love and attention with the baby? Can she come up with the perfect name for her new sibling's naming ceremony? The emotional journey of this soon-to-be big sister unfolds delicately, with the perfect balance of gravitas and humor. Young readers will be quickly absorbed in the character-driven plot and description of Hindu baby-welcoming ceremonies and customs. In a particularly touching scene, Amma assuages Sona's worries of being forgotten by comparing the family's love for Sona and her future sibling to the sky making space for the birth of a star. Khatun's linear illustrative style pairs well with the text, giving life to the lush foliage of India and the charming characters of Sona's family. VERDICT This chapter book's unique take on the familiar theme of welcoming a new baby is elevated by Soundar's exceptional characterization and Khatun's appealing art. A recommended purchase for school and public library collections.--Sarah Simpson, Westerville P.L., OH

Copyright 2021 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

This is a classic early chapter book, suitable for reading aloud as well as alone, with a gently humorous and imaginative style that effectively conveys character (Sona's grandmother's house has "breakable glass and unbreakable rules") and loving family dynamics, and there's an A. A. Milne flavor to Elephant's sometimes grumpy interjections (heard, of course, only by Sona). Sona's daily life filled with relatives, conversation, and tasty food will be relatable to some kids and enviable for others, and the name-day celebration may make all wish for a younger sibling to occasion such a party.
—The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred review)

This chapter book's unique take on the familiar theme of welcoming a new baby is elevated by Soundar's exceptional characterization and Khatun's appealing art. A recommended purchase for school and public library collections.
—School Library Journal (starred review)

Sona's mother is almost ready to give birth, and her Hindu family is getting ready for the baby's naming ceremony. . . . The book features a highly accessible story about transitioning from being an only child to a sibling, and it depicts well-developed, positive relationships among members of three generations, all of whom burst with personality. . . . A charming story about becoming a big sister.
—Kirkus Reviews

Soundar neatly folds familiar themes of changing family roles, adapting to new circumstances, and dealing with big feelings into this beautifully illustrated chapter book showcasing India's culture and traditions.
—Booklist

A sweet chapter book filled with charming illustrations on each page.
—Book Riot