Leila in Saffron

In a lyrical story about identity, family origins, and self-worth, Leila sees only her “skinny arms and knobby knees” in the mirror. But during a gathering at her Naani’s house, Leila looks to her family “for parts of me that I like.” She notes the similarities between her smile and her aunt’s, looks forward to buying books written in Arabic during her first trip to Pakistan, and regards Naani’s silk scarves in “the color of lentils, bright and orange; pomegranates, juicy and rosy; cucumber skin, dark and green; and threads of saffron, gold and copper.” Her careful observations lead her to discover a unique internal mosaic of influences that “make me who I am.” Mirtalipova illustrates in dramatic jewel tones that capture a homey atmosphere of abundance and warmth. Ages 4–8. [em](June) [/em]