Visit the Bhil Carnival

Gr 1–5—In this interactive story, Neela and his younger sister Peela join hands as they make their way to the Bhagoria Fair, a yearly event celebrated by the Bhil people of Central India. On the first spread, readers follow the siblings and their dog along a narrow red path that transforms into the string of a balloon and an invitation to enter the carnival. The second spread, which unfolds to an illustration several times the size of the book, is where the fair takes place. An endnote comments that Amaliyar, a native of Central India, paints in the "typically joyous, colorful style" of the Bhil people. Here, elongated, stylized folk-art figures and creatures in yellows, purples, and reds featuring dots of various colors, enjoy activities from the balloon, ice cream, and photo stands to dancing. A pop-up opens to reveal a Ferris Wheel. Text on the page is limited to signage ("Snake Tree," "Shops," etc.), but attached to a corner of the spread is a small book of "Stories" detailing the children's adventures (though mainly serving the illustration). Readers will encounter a few Briticisms, learn about some tasty treats, and eagerly enter into the spirit of this carnival. This book could be used as a writing prompt by asking children to choose a few characters at various activities and write a scene or two about them.