Monsoon Afternoon by Kashmira Sheth, illustrated by Yoshiko Jaeggi 2008During a monsoon rain storm what is a young boy to do? Boredom causes this young man to ask each of his family members to play, but they are too busy. Finally his Dadaji (grandfather) agrees to join him. They sail boats in the washtub, and wander through the damp village. After ending up at the old banyan tree the boy asks, "Dadaji, did you ever swing on this tree?" "Oh yes. Very often," he said. "Did monsoon come when you were little?" I asked. "Of course. Monsoon came every year when I was little. Just like it does now."
The rhythm of the monsoon season reflects the bigger themes of family lineage, and the passage of time. The powerful bond between grandfather and grandson takes place on the cultural backdrop of the Indian community.
Appropriate for ages 4-8
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