A BINDI CAN BE…
A young girl discovers that a bindi is more than just a dot that goes between her brows. With the help of her paati, she learns how to make a bindi using a clay pot, turmeric, sandalwood powder and a dollop of ghee. They mix and mix and mix until, like magic, the mixture turns from yellow to bright red. Her bindi can be many things – big or small, shaped like a dot or a glowing crescent moon, worn to celebrate a festival or on any day of the year. But one thing is for certain: how much her bindi means to her.
This lyrical picture book is a celebration of a cultural tradition that is steeped in history and practiced by millions of people around the world.
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My Name is Long as a River
In this sweeping picture book, an Indian girl discovers the power of her name as she travels along the river she was named after.
What’s so special about your name?
Kaveri Thanjavur Jayalakshmi Ganesan doesn’t think there is anything special about her very long name—in fact, she would prefer to be called “Kav.” But Paati reminds Kaveri that her name was inspired by her family’s heritage, where she was born, and the powerful river they journey across for the Pushkaram Festival. Along the way, Kaveri’s eyes and heart are opened to the beauty and magic her name holds.
Through Suma Subramaniam’s lyrical and tender writing and Tara Anand’s radiant illustrations, My Name Is Long as a River offers messages of cultural pride, self-confidence, and empowerment.
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Karma Is Action
Kate Fletcher at Candlewick has bought world rights to Karma Is Action by Suma Subramaniam (l.), illustrated by Lavanya Naidu. The picture book explores the meaningful—and sometimes misunderstood or appropriated—concept of karma to a young audience. Publication is set for spring 2027; Miranda Paul at Erin Murphy Literary Agency represented the author, and Aliza Hoover at the CAT Agency represented the artist.
Ahimsa Is Everywhere
Katie Scott at Kids Can Press has bought world rights to Ahimsa Is Everywhere by Suma Subramaniam (I.), a pocture book that explores the concept of ahimsa, a philosophy of universal love, especially in times of adversity. Aparna Varma (Anne and Her Tower of Giraffes) will illustrate; publication is set for spring 2025. Miranda Paul at Erin Murphy Literary Agency represented the author, and Andrea Cascardi at Transatlantic Agency represented the illustrator.
sumasubramaniam.com 