This is a beautifully-written book that was also gripping from the first page to the last. I actually shed a tear towards the end -- but it is not a sad book. It is an inspiring book that teaches children about an unusual subject: gender equality. I would love to see more books like this for the young girls of today.

Aruna's Journeys describes an Indian girl with an inner struggle as she merges her native culture with her American life. Aruna doesn't want to be different from the other kids in her class at her American school. She wants to be accepted. Children who read this story will be able to relate to Aruna because they have dealt with similar situations regardless of what culture they are from. Aruna's journey would be relevant to use in the upper elementary and lower middle school grades. The book could easily be integrated in a large unit focusing on diversity and culture. Character education could also be emphasized. Concepts such as respect and kindness could be discussed.

This book allowed me to learn about a culture with which I am unfamiliar: life in India. Some of the customs were strange, but I found that the story and the characters really kept my attention. The writing is intelligent. Children of many cultures will enjoy it.