Aai and I
by Mamta Nainy and illustrated by Sanket Pethkar
Yesterday (November 7) was International Cancer Awareness Day. “Aai and I” by Mamta Nainy and illustrated by Sanket Pethkar. Published by Pickle Yolk books. A heartwarming story of a little girl exploring her identity with respect to her Aai (mother) whom she resembles a lot.
Aadya is excited as it is a special day. Her Aai is coming back home finally from the big hospital. Her Aaji is making Kanda Poha which is Aai’s favourite food. And she has bought Aai’s favourite spicy sev to sprinkle on the poha. She can’t wait to meet Aai and talk to her about what all happened when she wasn’t at home. She is in for an unexpected occurrence.
Aai is back but walking so slowly unlike before. And whatever happened to her long and beautiful hair? Aai had told her that there was a big growth in her chest which was getting bigger too quickly. It had to be removed by doctors like the weeds in a garden. How then could she lose her long hair? How could she let the doctors cut it? Why did they have to do it? Why didn’t Aaji scold Aai as well as the doctors for cutting off the hair? Can Aadya ever look like her Aai again? All these thoughts come racing in Aadya’s mind.
The story flows so seamlessly and beautifully. Aadya’s innocence and her want to be just like Aai have been portrayed so well. The way Aai handles the situation is heart wrenching. The lovely bond between mother and child has been shown so beautifully.
I and my seven year old were moved by this story filled with the indefatigable spirit and strength of a cancer survivor. We have seen my father try his best fighting against this deadly disease earlier this year. Though we lost him unfortunately, we cannot forget what he went through and how we felt throughout the period. My son appreciated the book and was happy to know that it is possible to beat cancer in some circumstances. The book is apt for children aged 6+. Thank you Vidya Mani of Funky Rainbow for recommending this book!
Where to buy from?
The publishers Pickle Yolk books here.
An independent indie bookstore, Funky Rainbow, from where I buy many of my books.