A heartening tribute to Bollywood that will inspire readers to aspire for greatness.
By Avani Dwivedi ‧ RELEASE DATE: Aug. 8, 2023
The young protagonist in this story has a dream of becoming a filmmaker. Every Friday night, her family takes her to the theater in Mumbai to watch Bollywood movies. As they make their way through the traffic, the child’s imagination takes over and she sees the policeman directing traffic as an action star, and the travelers on the bridge as a crowd of dancers. At the theater, they settle in to watch the film and step into the cinematic world for a few hours.
The family is united by the joy of Bollywood, which transcends age and culture. The setting of the story is depicted as a vibrant and energetic place, with small shops suggesting a 1990s setting. The images are saturated and full of energy, though not as lavish as an actual Bollywood film. The story pays homage to masala films, which blend genres, and the young protagonist’s aspirations will surely inspire many kids to pursue their own goals. The story ends with a flash-forward, showing the protagonist as an adult confidently directing her own film, which is a charming touch. This book was reviewed digitally and is sure to be a hit with readers.
Pub Date: Aug. 8, 2023
ISBN: 9781536228427
Page Count: 40
Publisher: Candlewick
Review Posted Online: June 21, 2023
Kirkus Reviews Issue: July 15, 2023