2 minute read
Celebrating culture through
Embracing each other and our differences
I am eight years old and standing in gym class in a line of girls and I don’t want them to see what I am trying to hide. I clench my fists and curl my toes in as much as I can.
Yesterday, I ran gleefully through my house showing my mehndi off to anyone who would look at my palms and toes. The colorful and delicate vines are a deep chocolate brown and will stain my skin for a few days before they eventually fade.
But today, in gym class, I wish they were already faded and gone because I am embarrassed to show that I have mehndi on my hands and feet, and I don’t want to explain why my hands and feet look different. I wish I had been as proud of my mehndi at school as I had been at home.
I channeled that insecurity of looking and feeling different into my newest chapter book, Anisa’s International Day. Anisa, an artistic and spunky third-grader, is thrilled to show off her mehndi and plans to bring it into school for International Day for her friends to try on. But when her best friend doesn’t seem to like the idea or her anymore, Anisa worries she is losing a friend. Will she ever get to enjoy International Day?
Anisa’s International Day appeals to younger readers. Filled with charming illustrations by Aaliya Jaleel, delicious recipes, and artistic activities, this book can be easily incorporated into the classroom. As a former second-grade teacher, I made sure to include a strong classroom setting and plenty of third-grade drama that resolves with an ‘apology of action’ in which someone has to do something kind for someone, instead of simply apologising. I am glad that my story has resonated with teachers and students thus far.
Today, whenever I get an opportunity to wear mehndi or henna, I always say yes and I am not afraid to show it off. Learning about each other’s backgrounds can show us our differences, but it can also show us how similar we are. I hope that Anisa’s International Day introduces readers to my Pakistani culture and encourages all readers to celebrate their unique culture with joy and pride.
REEM FARUQI, Author of Anisa’s International Day www.reemfaruqi.com
