(3) K-3 Illustrated by Kamala Nair. In this picture book, a young child makes a bindi with their paati (grandmother). Then the youngster explains the significance of this dot between their eyebrows. The protagonist wears a bindi for religious observances such as Diwali and also to “celebrate life in all its fullness.” Focusing on the bindi helps the child to feel centered and calm. Subramaniam’s soothing, lyrical text pairs well with Nair’s warm digital illustrations. An author’s note explaining more about bindis and a glossary are appended.

Reviewer: Marva Anne Hinton

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Tara Anand. Young Kaveri Thanjavur Jayalakshmi Ganesan goes by Kav, aware of how having a long name causes some others to “trip over” it, running out of space writing it, etc. On the way to the Kaveri Pushkaram festival, her grandmother tells her the significance of each part of her name. Jewel-toned illustrations accompany a gentle, respectful text as Kaveri grows to embrace her moniker. Back matter includes a glossary and information and reflections on names and on India’s Kaveri River.

Reviewer: Shoshana Flax