Ritu in the Sun
Hardcover
Published on Apr 21, 2026 | 32 Pages
AmazonBarnes & NobleBooks A MillionBookshop.orgTargetWalmart
Ebook
Published on Apr 21, 2026 | 32 Pages
AmazonApple BooksBarnes & NobleBooks A MillionGoogle PlayKobo
Grades Preschool – 3
Ages 4–8
A lyrical picture book about one little girl’s experience with colorism—and a celebration of that which can make us see things anew: light and love.
Ritu loves the sun. She loves it in the morning when it slants in through the kitchen window; in the afternoon when it makes the pool sparkle; and in the evening when it lights up the sky with splashes of orange and pink. But her Nani is worried the sun will give Ritu a tan.
Can Ritu convince her that all skin colors are beautiful—including Nani’s own?
With poetic text and stunning illustrations, this poignant story is sure to inspire children to embrace their own unique beauty—and it includes the author’s grandmother’s own aloo bhaji and roti recipes at the back.
★ "It’s hard to teach self-acceptance and self-esteem to young children, but this book does so in an indirect, organic way.... An excellent read-aloud for all children." —School Library Journal, starred review
★ "Just as Joanna Ho’s Eyes That Kiss in the Corners celebrated East Asian heritage, this picture book will be a welcome addition to South Asian diasporic stories....A joyful and tender story of building understanding and generational bonds." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review
★ "Aloo bhaji and roti recipes round out this lyrical exploration of colorism and self-acceptance through the gentle eyes of a young child." —Booklist, starred review
★ "The lyrical text offers a shift in perspective that comes with love and understanding. The acrylic-paint and graphite illustrations create a cozy, lived-in feeling." —The Horn Book, starred review
ISBN 9780593806692 (Hardcover)
Published on Apr 21, 2026
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers
Pages 32
Dimensions 9 x 11
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3
Reading Level Lexile: 590L
ISBN 9780593806708 (Ebook)
Published on Apr 21, 2026
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers
Pages 32
Age Range 4-8 years
Grade Preschool - 3
Reading Level Lexile: 590L
