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“An affirming story about accepting and loving ourselves and our cultural traditions.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Payne’s tender text and Mhasane’s softly rendered illustrations in colored pencil and watercolor capture Ameena blooming from an insecure girl to one who takes pride in her implied Indo-Caribbean culture. . . .A sincere ending. . . .shows the rich and intricate layers of their diverse cultures that make them beautiful and empowers viewers to embrace their identity with confidence.”

– Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books

The Beautiful Layers of Me

Written by Sophia Payne
Illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane
Published by Candlewick

Ameena can’t wait for her auntie’s Nikah. She’s never been to a wedding, and today there is one in her own garden! After putting on the salwar kameez that Babu gave her, with its soft layers of floaty fabric, she feels like a princess, skipping down the garden path.

“Oh wow!” comes a friendly voice over the fence. “I wish I had pajamas like that!” Suddenly Ameena, her cheeks hot, starts to wonder: should she wear something else?

In a gentle text capturing all the nuances of a first cultural experience, Sophia Payne follows a child’s passage from self-doubt to worry to pride, while Ruchi Mhasane’s expressive illustrations render the wedding garb in glowing colors and patterns that will have young readers wanting to join in the celebration.

Primary ISBN: 9781536242898
Publication Date: June 2025
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented: ,

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

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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