SEVEN SAMOSAS

An Indian grandfather and child head to the market to stock up for a party—and find themselves embarking on a lesson in counting.

Sona and Dada (Grandfather) wander around, encountering foods from a variety of Indian culinary traditions. They pick up “20 ladoos at this store” and then “19 elaichis from a drawer.” The book continues counting backward as the pair buy “18 sheeras from that man.” What’s next? “16 mangoes in a line,” “15 flavors on the sign!” and “13 tikkis—so delish!” Sona and Dada even stop for eclairs, which, the authors explain, are served in the southeast Indian city of Pondicherry, once a French colony. At the end of their shopping trip, the two return home and prepare a celebratory picnic for friends and family. The book’s bright illustrations make use of enticing patterns and feature background characters with a variety of skin tones and hair textures. Filled with color and movement, the artwork brims with joyful chaos. The jaunty verse, presented in couplets, cleverly covers a wide variety of foods, although at times the authors sacrifice word choice for the sake of a rhyme. Accompanying the main text are explanatory notes in a smaller font, which include pronunciations for Hindi words and definitions. This is a well-thought-out, refreshingly original work, with whimsical illustrations beautifully complementing the exuberant text.

A charming concept book, an upbeat romp, and an ode to South Asian cuisine, all in one delectable package.