Flying in Colors

Though her uncle Selva died five months after she was born, nine-year-old Pavi—who lives in 1975 Madras, South India, now called Chennai—has always felt linked to him. Her extended Tamil family often compares Pavi to Selva, which makes her feel unsure of her own identity. This feeling of uncertainty worsens as she navigates cliques at her British private school, a new sibling on the way, and her parents’ decision to move the family to the U.S. Following an embarrassing incident with a teacher and a startling revelation from her aunt, Pavi’s physical and mental health take a turn, leading to an unpredictable and dangerous situation. The historical setting skillfully illustrates the tension between British and Indian cultures as well as colorism and the caste system, and how these variables impact Pavi’s understanding of her family and herself. Sometimes extraneous detail and an abrupt resolution aside, a sizable, fully drawn cast includes empathetic renderings of mental health challenges and grief. Lighthearted moments between Pavi and her family members—particularly cousin Ruku and younger brother Arun—impart a cheerful undercurrent to Reddeppa’s emotional debut. An author’s note and glossary conclude. Ages 9–13. (May)

Update: The text of this review has been revised.