Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Big-hearted graphic novel explores Indian culture.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 10+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
At the start of PASHMINA, Priyanka Das is at odds with her overprotective mother, who refuses to tell her daughter why and how she left India years ago. One night, Pri finds a mysterious chest that contains a magical scarf, one that carries her away to a colorful fantasy version of her mother's birthplace. When Pri wins a cartooning contest, she uses the prize money to buy plane tickets to India, where she meets her aunt and begins to understand more about herself and what it means to be Indian American.
Is It Any Good?
The search for cultural identity fuels many comics, and this big-hearted graphic novel treats its subject with sensitivity, insight, and a touch of magic. In Pri, Pashmina has a protagonist many readers will relate to: someone unsure of her place in the world but willing to go out and find answers on her own. Nidhi Chanani's artwork is simple but effective, and when the narrative moves into colorful fantasy, all the elements of the story click into place. Funny, wise, and moving, Pashmina will appeal to readers curious to learn more about their families and their traditions.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how Pashmina contrasts the cultures of India and the United States. How does religion shape the behavior of people from different cultures?
Why are some parents "overprotective"? How can parents and kids negotiate which activities are safe for them?
Pri travels on her own to visit her aunt in India. What can travel teach young people that might not be found in books?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Nidhi Chanani
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : First Second
- Publication date : October 3, 2017
- Number of pages : 176
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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