Purchase to Support Our Program

“Mepani’s writing flows with the ease of a child’s thoughts and is layered with nuance through Meena’s keen observations about the immigrant experience, the power of community, gender roles, and her own aspirations. Ismail’s mixed-media illustrations reflect these layers through vibrant images with varying transparencies and washes of color.”

– School Library Journal, Starred Review

Meena’s Saturday

Written by Kusum Mepani
Illustrated by Yasmeen Ismail
Published by Kokila

A slice-of-life story with a feminist message about a young Indian girl and her sisters managing a bustling house full of boisterous guests on a busy Saturday.

Saturday mornings start early for Meena. She and her sisters watch the sun rise while drinking chai before they clean the house and then head to the grocery store . . . while their brother gets to stay in bed. As the guests arrive, including Meena’s favorite cousins, the women crowd into the kitchen to cook. The doorbell rings nonstop as family, neighbors, and friends fill the bustling house. Once fresh chapatis are made, dinner begins—for the men. But Meena spots an empty seat at the table and decides today is the day she makes an important change.

Meena’s Saturday by Kusum Mepani, with exuberant illustrations by Yasmeen Ismail, is the charming story of a family’s weekend ritual, a love letter to the gatherings of community and family, and an example of how changing long-standing traditions can start with you.

Primary ISBN: 9780593110317
Publication Date: October 2024
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Unspecified (Western Country)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

Click here for details about how we define our titles.

Engagement Projects & Resources:

Share your favorite resources for this book with info@imyourneighborbooks.org.