Celebrating Hindi Heritage and Inclusivity at the Brooklyn Museum Children's Book Fair
“It was not a good day—it was an awesome day!” My six-year-old whispered that loudly when I hugged him goodnight and wished him shubh ratri—Hindi for "goodnight"—thanking him for joining me at the Brooklyn Museum Children’s Book Fair. I was honored to be one of the featured authors and storytellers, and I had hoped he enjoyed spending his Sunday alongside me, experiencing life as a working author. I knew he could have chosen to hang out with his dad and sister, who are usually way more fun. So, I was prepared to hear otherwise! But hearing him call his experience awesome was such a delightful surprise as a parent.
A Magical Day Exploring the World of Words
He picked The Ice Cream Vanishes as his favorite book from the fair to bring home, inspired by Julia Sarcone-Roach’s enchanting illustrations. We shared a table with her—the “table of hungry bears” who love to eat! 🐻😋🍦🍪🫖 My son watched as Julia created bear drawings while signing her books for her numerous young fans. Inspired, he spent time making his own artwork, carefully saving each piece in his treasured art box at home. Later, he even wrote a diary entry in the mini notebook he discovered at the fair, capturing his memories of the day.
Image: My six year old soaking in a day full of inspirations and inclusivity.
Inspiring Moments from Our Hindi Bilingual Adventures
He stood beside me, keenly observing as I spoke with wonderful families and young readers. Some were excited to build their Hindi-heritage libraries, while others were delighted to discover a book that invites inclusive exploration of Hindi words and the flavors of India. It filled me with pride and gratitude when families stopped by to share that they had met me at previous children’s fairs and how much they love and enjoy our book.
Image: Unforgettable encounters with young explorers at the Brooklyn Museum's 18th Annual Children's Book Fair
Another unexpected highlight was bumping into his classmate. The two friends eagerly volunteered to help feed our very hungry brown bear during our interactive bilingual reading, and their infectious enthusiasm made the experience incredibly fun for everyone involved. A huge thank you to the kind parent who captured those sweet moments!
Image: Bilingual Storytelling of My Heart Would Like Some More, Please!
The day was filled with these heartwarming encounters that left a lasting impression on both of us. Watching my son soak in the celebration of his Hindi heritage and inclusivity was incredibly validating. I experienced the Brooklyn Museum’s Children’s Book Fair not just as an author but as a proud parent. It was truly a very special day for us, full of meaningful connections and inspiring experiences.
Grateful for Our Growing Tribe of Bilingual Explorers
Image: Diverse, inclusive and empowered bilingual explorers from all backgrounds
Every step on this journey to nurture our growing bilingual tribe of diverse, inclusive, and empowered explorers of words and worlds has been inspiring—and it's only the beginning. My heart is full of gratitude. I hope you feel the joy and inclusivity that this tribe embodies!
Meanwhile, my younger daughter had her own adventure with her dad. Despite a big scare at the park—expertly handled by my husband, who is healing from a surgery—my son and I came home to find them in good spirits. She was inspired by her older brother’s exciting recollection of the day and has already made me promise it’s her turn next time to join me at the author events. I can’t wait to create more beautiful memories like these with both of them, as well as with all of you.
Thank you, Brooklyn Museum, for the core memories. My heart is full.💖🌸