Having loved Always Anjali, I was so excited for this next installment. Continuing this precious picture book, Sheth delivers a story about expectations and standing out. Keep reading this book review for my full thoughts.
Summary
For Anjali, playing the tabla is something that comes naturally. She loves the feel of the drum beneath her fingers and getting lost in the music. But when a boy in her class gives her a hard time for being better than him, she messes up on purpose. When her teacher announces a contest where the winner will get to perform with him at his next concert, Anjali is distraught. Winning the contest would be a dream for Anjali. But it seems like the better she gets, the meaner some of the kids are.
Review
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
Bravo Anjali! is colorful and charming. It’s a story about gender stereotypes, friendship break ups, and celebrating our light. The world can tell us what we should do, all the ways we should stop being what they don’t expect. But it’s up to us to stay true to ourselves, our passions, and our own light. While the ending felt a bit hasty, I loved how thoughtful Bravo Anjali! is. At the end of the day, it’s a precious, and important, story about our bravery and loves inspiring others. About realizing we shouldn’t try to diminish ourselves to fit in.
Find Bravo Anjali! on Goodreads, Amazon, Indiebound, Bookshop.org & The Book Depository.