Fly in the Chai

PreS-Gr 2–In an entertaining new picture book, Wadhwani introduces important aspects of Indian culture with humor and fun. When a young girl spots a fly in her Nanu’s chai (tea), the whole community comes together to give advice and ask important questions. Should he throw the tea away? Does the fly need rescuing? Suddenly, the fly jumps up and introduces herself, starting a lively conversation with Nanu. The ending of the book is both silly and unexpected. Throughout the engaging story, Wadhwani introduces aspects of Indian culture, including common greetings in Hindi, Bengali, Gujarati, Punjabi, and Arabic. The girl and her grandfather spot a saree shop and a rickshaw, then walk through an open market where they see common Indian fruits and vegetables such as mangoes and okra. Nanu and the spirited fly discuss their favorite Indian foods: kulfi, samosas, jalebis, and ladoos. Brabhat’s illustrations splash vibrant colors across varied spreads and are filled with details to explore, such as the floral patterns on the fabric in the saree shop. The back matter includes a glossary of Indian foods and the author’s favorite chai recipe.