• Age: 6 to 8
• Grade: 1 to 3
• Reading age: 6 to 8

Key Selling Points

• A young girl goes to her grandmother's house for a tea party and soon discovers her grandmother expects her to help make the tea—a special Bengali tea called doodh cha .
• Shows the passing down of a family tradition in a lighthearted way, including how much food is linked to culture, and the bonding that happens when people share their traditions. It is also intertwined with a story about how being patient can pay off.
• This story mirrors the author's lived experience as it was inspired by her visits with her own grandmother, and includes her family doodh cha recipe in the backmatter.
• Farida Zaman was born in Bangladesh but now lives in Canada. She is both author and illustrator, bringing this personal story to life with her charming and bright illustrations.

Farida Zaman is a Toronto-based multidisciplinary artist and writer who is well-known for her whimsical, uplifting designs. She has illustrated fourteen picture books, including When Mom's Away, Ta-Da! and The Yoga Game, and is the author/illustrator of I Want To Be… A Gutsy Girls’ ABC. Born in Bangladesh, and having called many different countries home, Farida describes herself as a global citizen with a flair for illustrating stories related to different cultures, travel, history, and diverse lived experiences. She trained in fine art and illustration at the Chelsea School of Art and the Wimbledon School of Art in London, England, where she graduated top of her class with honors. Her work has been exhibited at shows and galleries and has received recognition and awards in Europe and North America.

Farida Zaman's profile page

“This vibrantly illustrated book is a quiet tribute to intergenerational relationships and family traditions. A tender, gentle tale that will help children live in the moment.”

Kirkus Reviews

“A simple and lovely introduction to the South Asian classic cup of tea… Farida Zaman uses watercolor and collage to create the colourful and engaging illustrations that draw the readers’ eyes to Meena and Nanu’s actions. Recommended.”

CM: Canadian Review of Materials

“While Meena’s tummy rumbles in anticipation of the snacks they’ll eat, Nanu schools her granddaughter in the culturally significant preparations of doodh cha…This is a touching story of intergenerational love and identity. Cheerful illustrations add some cultural context, and a recipe for doodh cha as well as a personal note from the author lend a sweet touch.”

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