What This Book Is About
Sona Sharma lives in a busy multigenerational household in India with her parents, grandparents, baby sister, and an assortment of relatives who are always popping in. When Sona learns about climate change at school, she decides her family needs to do more—immediately. She throws out her sister's disposable diapers, switches off her grandparents' fan during their afternoon nap, and generally turns the household upside down in the name of saving the planet.
Her family is not amused. But at a family meeting, everyone pitches in to make a practical list of eco-friendly changes they can actually stick to. Energized by success at home, Sona sets her sights on the whole neighborhood—especially the kolams, the beautiful traditional designs people draw in front of their homes during festival season. When she discovers many kolams use materials that are not eco-friendly, she hatches a plan that is bigger, bolder, and more Sona than ever.
Available at Popular bookstores, Kinokuniya, and the Singapore National Library.
Why We Recommend This Book
For A1-level readers (Grade 2), this book is a wonderful choice for three reasons.
First, the environmental theme connects directly to what children study in UWC's inquiry units. Sona's story shows that even young kids can take real action—a message that feels empowering rather than preachy.
Second, the book is set in India and woven with cultural details—kolams, multigenerational homes, festival traditions—that broaden a child's worldview. For students in Singapore's international school community, reading about families in South Asia builds cross-cultural understanding naturally.
Third, the language is warm and accessible at the A1 level. Short chapters, playful illustrations by Jen Khatun, and Sona's funny, relatable voice make this an ideal bridge from picture books to chapter books.
Reading Level Guide
Building foundations. Pre-A1 readers can enjoy this as a read-aloud with a parent guiding the chapter-book format.
Perfect difficulty. Short chapters and illustrations support A1 readers transitioning to independent chapter books.
Comfortable read at A2. A fun, quick book that still offers rich cultural learning and discussion topics.
Other UWC Recommended Books for This Grade
Not sure if this book is right for your child? Take our free English assessment to find their CEFR level, then choose books that match.