This picture book about Diwali is a mixture of both traditional and new ways to celebrate the holiday in a secular nation. Diwali is Devi’s favorite time of year because that means there will be sweets, new clothes, jewelry, bindis, marigolds, diyas, rangoli, lights, and sparklers — but most of all, her family will be hosting a big party. The story presents both the celebration of Diwali and also the cleansing, prayers, and offerings involved, and shows that the joy of the holiday can be shared with family and friends inside and outside of the culture. (School Library Journal)
