Henna Is...(2024)
A picture book that serves young readers as a lyrical love letter to henna, written by Middle East Book Award winner Marzieh Abbas and brilliantly illustrated by Anu Chouhan.
Henna is so much more than a form of temporary body art.
Henna is nature—seeds sprouted into shrubs, leaves kissed by tropical rain.
Henna is color—the orange of juicy mangoes, sun-kissed brown, or black as the feathers of crows.
Henna is fragrance—earthy and nutty, lemony and clove-y.
The intricate patterns of flowers, feathers, vines, and other symbols painted and stained onto skin has been a tradition in cultures all around the world for thousands of years. Beautiful and eye-catching, henna also carries the scents, textures, and colors of family and identity.
by Marzieh Abbas illustrated by Anu Chouhan
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Henna is... so many things! Kids and their grown ups can learn about henna from how it is produced, and used, to the meaning behind the use of henna and the connections it forms between communities and generations.
The refrain "But henna is so much more..." leads readers to each new discovery about what henna is. Lyrical writing and beautiful illustrations makes this a must read book for families, libraries and classrooms.
Christine Evans
Henna is ... not just a beautiful, lyrical book , it is also informative and inclusive, giving a glimpse into the life cycle of henna, celebrating an ancient tradition that brings joy on important family occasions.
It is a pleasant surprise to see a nonfiction (book) be a page turner. Just when you think you know everything about henna, you discover something new.
Henna is... a building block to acknowledging a diverse classroom and is a small step towards showing inclusivity.
If you have enjoyed reading 'A Dupatta is' By Marzieh Abbas, you will enjoy this book too.
Illustrations by Anu Chouhan are subtle and blend well with Marzeih's text.