Between My Hands- When Maya’s boredom gets the best of her, she remembers what her grandfather from India would always say, “What’s between your hands when you namaste the world?” She goes on a local quest to find out what other people’s answers are and in that, she finds the answer for herself. Between My Hands is a beautiful book that illustrates the love and power that we have as individuals and how we can transfer that love and power to each other.
What’s It About
Nameste is a common greeting in India and other parts of the world, but what does it mean? Maya’s grandfather reminds us that its translation is “I bow to you.” When we bow, it is a sign of respect and transfer of love and energy. We place our hands together in greeting by putting our hands together.
When Maya chooses to find the answer to this question about herself, she asks people in the neighborhood what is between their hands when they nameste the world. Maya learns the interests and passions of the people who live in her community and effectively learns what is in her hands when she namestes the world.
A book about tradition, love and community value is filled with important life lessons for your children and a beautiful reminder for yourself. Author Mitali Perkins is a National Book Award Nominee and writes beautifully. Your child can really feel what it is like to be Maya and solve this challenge. Illutrator Naveen Selvanathan’s realistic illustrations have a hint of whimsy, really placing the reader into the story.
Extra Credit
Have your child write and/or draw a picture of what what is in her hands when they nameste the world. What did they draw or write? This is a great way for your child to express their interests, passions and love.
