Bringing Asha Home by Uma Krishnaswami

Eight-year-old Arun is delighted when his parents tell him they are adopting a baby girl, Asha, from Dad's native India; but the paperwork and procedures require a long wait, during which Arun pretends his paper airplanes are bringing Asha from India. Krishnaswami (say Krish-na-swa-mee) uses the North Indian Hindu Rakhi Day (Rakshabandhan), which celebrates the bond between sisters and brothers, to frame the story. Arun explains the custom to his best friend, and Asha arrives clutching a rakhi (bracelet) for her brother. Jamel Akib's warm, realistic illustrations in soft colors enhance the text: Mom is white, family and friends are diverse, home life and activities are inviting.
Loving preparations for adoption, a less well-known but very special Hindu tradition, and subtle diversity make this book an excellent choice for all elementary collections. An author's note provides more information on Rakhi Day and adoption. Hindi words (such as "rakhi") are explained above the CIP information.
Grades K-3.