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“The celebration of Diwali is explored in this story of a young girl. Riya is afraid of the dark and does not understand why she has to endure the nighttime celebration that includes loud noises from fireworks and crowds, so Mama shares with her why Diwali is so important.”

– School Library Journal

Once Upon a Diwali

Written by Anita Mishra
Illustrated by Diah Chakraborty
Published by Soaring Kite Books

Riya loves Diwali for the tasty treats but not the darkness and loud fireworks. Can Riya be brave and find a way to celebrate Diwali with her family without being scared?

Presented as a ‘Once Upon a Time’ bedtime story, children will learn the origin of Diwali and how it came to be a celebration of light over darkness and good over evil. Diwali is a five-day long celebration beginning from purchasing silver and gold items, to decorating the home with lights and candles, to preparing baked goods and visiting friends and family, to ending the holiday with fireworks and a celebration of siblings.

Anita Mishra and Diah Chakraborty join together to represent their respective cultures as Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is celebrated around the world and across various religions including Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, and Buddhists.

Primary ISBN: 9781958372449
Publication Date: August 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 05 or older

Community Represented:

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Setting: Unspecified

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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

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