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Why is My Hair Curly?
Avantika brushes and brushes, but there’s no keeping her curly hair down. How she wished her hair was straight and smooth like Amma’s and Appa’s and her brother Avnish’s. Their parents had adopted the two of them when she was three-and-a-half years old and Avnish a six-month-old baby. Avantika often wonders if their birth mother had curly hair.
There are so many questions in her head, the school year has started with hair-raising troubles and Amma is busy at work. Avantika finds a confidante in the mysterious paati she meets in the park.
There are so many questions in her head, the school year has started with hair-raising troubles and Amma is busy at work. Avantika finds a confidante in the mysterious paati she meets in the park.
146 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 29, 2020
17 people are currently reading
85 people want to read
About the author
Lakshmi Iyer
22 books31 followersLakshmi is an alumna of the Yale Writers Workshop 2018. She has a certificate in creative writing from Simon Fraser University. A business analyst by profession, she raises her children in the Northeast US with her husband. Her work has appeared in Mutha Magazine, The Huffington Post, Chicago Now, Adoptive Families, Centered magazine and The Verve. She also has essays in two anthologies – I AM STRENGTH (Blind Faith Books) and Desi Modern Love (Story Artisan Press). Her debut children’s book “Why is my Hair Curly?” was published by the Red Panda imprint (Westland Books – An Amazon company)
She blogs at www.lgiyer.com and is often found tweeting @lakshgiri
She blogs at www.lgiyer.com and is often found tweeting @lakshgiri
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
June 7, 2021
Such a cute story!
There is something special about finding words and endearments from the language we ourselves speak in the books we read. We immediately feel like a part of the world of the book and that's true for me with this one that has a liberal sprinkling of Tamil.
Avantika has curly hair that she struggles to manage and that she gets teased about. But more importantly, she wonders why her hair is the way it is. Weaving a story around this, the author has beautifully portrayed the feelings of an adopted child who is much loved but wonders at the differences she sees in herself.
I loved Avantika's journal writing most of all and the fact that her Amma and Appa are so balanced, sensible and affectionate. Her relationship with her younger brother is also very sweet. The lovely illustrations make the book even better.
From the train journey that starts off the story to the very end, so many things invoked nostalgia of school summer holidays and childhood in general. This is a book that brought a smile to my face. A very happy, feel good book that I would recommend to everyone!
There is something special about finding words and endearments from the language we ourselves speak in the books we read. We immediately feel like a part of the world of the book and that's true for me with this one that has a liberal sprinkling of Tamil.
Avantika has curly hair that she struggles to manage and that she gets teased about. But more importantly, she wonders why her hair is the way it is. Weaving a story around this, the author has beautifully portrayed the feelings of an adopted child who is much loved but wonders at the differences she sees in herself.
I loved Avantika's journal writing most of all and the fact that her Amma and Appa are so balanced, sensible and affectionate. Her relationship with her younger brother is also very sweet. The lovely illustrations make the book even better.
From the train journey that starts off the story to the very end, so many things invoked nostalgia of school summer holidays and childhood in general. This is a book that brought a smile to my face. A very happy, feel good book that I would recommend to everyone!
January 21, 2022
3.75⭐
Avantika has got abundant curly locks while everyone in her family has straight hair. The hair is the progenitor of many tussles, the prominent portion of them belonging to early mornings, when everyone is harried, nerves are frayed and tempers are at an edge.
So it is no wonder that Avantika keeps wondering why she has been blessed with such unruly locks. They take oodles of time being washed, being dried and being tamed into manageable styles. And that brings us to another bone of contention between Avantika and her Amma, the length of her hair. Amma wants them small so that she can clean, dry and braid them quickly on the school mornings. Of course, we all know Avantika wants them long and preferably as straight as a ruler. Only if wishes were horses…
What's the mystery behind her unique mane? Why does Amma never talk about her childhood or Avantika's paati, her mother? Who is the old woman who befriends Avantika? Is she real or imaginary?
The hair story could have been hairy, but it is a sweet simple tale. Too simple in my opinion. The language seemed a little flat. I understand it might be because of the targeted audience but I have read other books pertaining to the same age group with a little more pizazz. The characters could have been developed better. Avantika's appa is almost non-existent and the other characters too seem one dimensional.
We do get to see the dilemma of Avantika and her troubled little heart tugs at our heartstrings. Her interactions with her mother cannot fail to make our hearts flutter with long lost memories of our own childhood. I absolutely loved the illustrations in the book. They bring the characters to life in front of us.
A nice story of acceptance that might be enjoyed by kids.
Avantika has got abundant curly locks while everyone in her family has straight hair. The hair is the progenitor of many tussles, the prominent portion of them belonging to early mornings, when everyone is harried, nerves are frayed and tempers are at an edge.
So it is no wonder that Avantika keeps wondering why she has been blessed with such unruly locks. They take oodles of time being washed, being dried and being tamed into manageable styles. And that brings us to another bone of contention between Avantika and her Amma, the length of her hair. Amma wants them small so that she can clean, dry and braid them quickly on the school mornings. Of course, we all know Avantika wants them long and preferably as straight as a ruler. Only if wishes were horses…
What's the mystery behind her unique mane? Why does Amma never talk about her childhood or Avantika's paati, her mother? Who is the old woman who befriends Avantika? Is she real or imaginary?
The hair story could have been hairy, but it is a sweet simple tale. Too simple in my opinion. The language seemed a little flat. I understand it might be because of the targeted audience but I have read other books pertaining to the same age group with a little more pizazz. The characters could have been developed better. Avantika's appa is almost non-existent and the other characters too seem one dimensional.
We do get to see the dilemma of Avantika and her troubled little heart tugs at our heartstrings. Her interactions with her mother cannot fail to make our hearts flutter with long lost memories of our own childhood. I absolutely loved the illustrations in the book. They bring the characters to life in front of us.
A nice story of acceptance that might be enjoyed by kids.
December 23, 2021
A well written children's book that deals with adoption, individuality and insecurity.
Have ordered a paperback for my 9 year old niece , as I am sure she will love it.
Have ordered a paperback for my 9 year old niece , as I am sure she will love it.
July 10, 2020
‘We both get window seats!’ said Avnish — and with that very fist line Why is my Hair Curly by Lakshmi Iyer gets set to reel in the reader (At 14, my twins still strike deals for the window seat).
The book is about Avantika who is constantly troubled by her thick mass of curly hair unlike that of her parents and her brother who are blessed with straight silky manes. She reminds me a little of Anne of the Green Gables and her red-hair woes.
Avantika knows both she and her brother are adopted and it usually doesn’t bother her except when it comes to her hair. That makes her wonder if she got it from her birth mother and therein is born a vague desire to see her.
One day she meets and befriends an old woman. Their friendship flowers over long conversations about Harry Potter and life in general. However, is their more to the old woman than what Avantika knows?
This is a warm happy read with a bit of a mystery thrown it. A perfect chapter book for middle graders.
While it touches upon serious topics like adoption and self-acceptance it keeps the story-telling light.
My favourite bits are the small everyday things that make it extremely identifiable and that’s what will endear it to young readers - the snacking on the train, the excitement of first day of school, the morning rush even the nasty cousins, Oh and the embarrassingly snoring dad, the mom’s nudge to quieten him - that’s my dad and mom and also the husband and I.
My only regret - I wish I’d waited for the paperback version.
The book is about Avantika who is constantly troubled by her thick mass of curly hair unlike that of her parents and her brother who are blessed with straight silky manes. She reminds me a little of Anne of the Green Gables and her red-hair woes.
Avantika knows both she and her brother are adopted and it usually doesn’t bother her except when it comes to her hair. That makes her wonder if she got it from her birth mother and therein is born a vague desire to see her.
One day she meets and befriends an old woman. Their friendship flowers over long conversations about Harry Potter and life in general. However, is their more to the old woman than what Avantika knows?
This is a warm happy read with a bit of a mystery thrown it. A perfect chapter book for middle graders.
While it touches upon serious topics like adoption and self-acceptance it keeps the story-telling light.
My favourite bits are the small everyday things that make it extremely identifiable and that’s what will endear it to young readers - the snacking on the train, the excitement of first day of school, the morning rush even the nasty cousins, Oh and the embarrassingly snoring dad, the mom’s nudge to quieten him - that’s my dad and mom and also the husband and I.
My only regret - I wish I’d waited for the paperback version.
June 30, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Avantika's endearing personality (and her family's) jumps off the page and pulls the reader right into her plight--with her unruly, curly, and beautiful hair. But the story is not just about her hair; it is a metaphor of feeling different, as Avantika and her brother are adopted. Set in modern India, Ms. Iyer brings the setting to life with the sounds, tastes, and touch of Avantika's world, subtly and just enough to immerse us within it. The story takes us through Avantika's journey with her hair, with her family, the start of a new school year, and with her meeting a mysterious paati, a grandmotherly woman. There is more to this stranger's story. Read to find out! I loved the illustrations and diary entries. I look forward to purchasing the paperback, too, to give to my children to read...and I can't wait to read Ms. Iyer's next book!
July 13, 2021
A very cute story. Enjoyed reading this. The book revolves around Avantika's dilemma and heartache over her curly hair which stays untamed inspite of brushing. This little girl who knows she was adopted by her Appa and Amma keeps thinking if her birth mother had hair like hers. She just wants to feel related to somebody in her adopted family by having sleek straight hair. This is inspite of being loved and adored by everybody in the family. The author has etched all the characters so well starting from the servant maid Rukmini and even the chitappa's character who just has a couple pages of presence.
I loved the way Avantika wrote her journal and letter to the paati in park. The language is so easy and has a great South Indian touch. The liberal sprinking of the words which we use on a daily basis made me relate to it even better. The illustrations by Niloufer Wadia was icing on the cake. Goes so well with the story. Absolutely loved this feel good story
I loved the way Avantika wrote her journal and letter to the paati in park. The language is so easy and has a great South Indian touch. The liberal sprinking of the words which we use on a daily basis made me relate to it even better. The illustrations by Niloufer Wadia was icing on the cake. Goes so well with the story. Absolutely loved this feel good story
June 30, 2020
Avantika shares a love hate relationship with her curly hair. It is unruly, it makes her stand out, and it makes her feel lonely in a family with straight and smooth hair. It kindles an intense longing to connect with her biological mother. How she comes to terms with her hair is the crux of the story.
Why is My Hair Curly? is set in India and follows a modern day family formed through adoption. Light yet profound, this story is very relatable to the young and the old. It is a story that can be read at different levels. My 9 year old giggled out loud at the humor and was captivated by how the illustrations so closely followed the story, and my 15 year old commented how there are several underlying themes that are worthy of deep dive. As for me, I hung onto every word in the story and fell in love with this warm and adorable family of four and its extended members.
If Lakshmi Iyer painted a story with her words, Niloufer Wadia brought those words to life through her illustrations. This is one book that you should judge by its cover. The story is funny, has twists and turns, and the author very subtly weaves in themes in an age appropriate manner. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you have turned the last page. You do not want to miss out on this book.
Why is My Hair Curly? is set in India and follows a modern day family formed through adoption. Light yet profound, this story is very relatable to the young and the old. It is a story that can be read at different levels. My 9 year old giggled out loud at the humor and was captivated by how the illustrations so closely followed the story, and my 15 year old commented how there are several underlying themes that are worthy of deep dive. As for me, I hung onto every word in the story and fell in love with this warm and adorable family of four and its extended members.
If Lakshmi Iyer painted a story with her words, Niloufer Wadia brought those words to life through her illustrations. This is one book that you should judge by its cover. The story is funny, has twists and turns, and the author very subtly weaves in themes in an age appropriate manner. This is one of those books that stays with you long after you have turned the last page. You do not want to miss out on this book.
August 2, 2020
Iyer's debut is a charming and moving addition to adoption literature (which tends to focus on white parents adopting children of color). Avantika lives with her adoptive parents and little brother in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. She is a generally happy kid with natural curiosity about her birth family. When a kind old woman with curly hair befriends her at the park, we wonder whether she might be a long lost relation, but Iyer eschews predictable plot developments in favor of something much warmer and lovelier.
July 3, 2020
A sweet book perfect for middle-grade readers that touches upon topics like adoption and self-acceptance. I wish that the personalities of both Avantika and Avnish had been etched a bit more- though I perhaps speak from the point of view of an adult reader and that for a child reading this book, this level of detail and length would be perfect!
June 30, 2020
A beautifully written book about being different and belonging. Loved the openness and honesty in all the characters in the book. Also loved how it was filled with sweet nostalgic elements from my own childhood like the summer vacation train journeys and the thrill of going back to school.
June 30, 2020
Loved this debut!
Chapter book for children (~age 8-12).
A delightful read with beautiful illustrations. Set in a country outside the US (India) and features people who do not speak/live/eat the way the majority here do. Offers a glimpse into another culture while addressing universal themes. Opens the way for meaningful conversations on acceptance, adoption, and navigating complex feelings. Excellent way to add diversity to young readers’ bookshelves.
Chapter book for children (~age 8-12).
A delightful read with beautiful illustrations. Set in a country outside the US (India) and features people who do not speak/live/eat the way the majority here do. Offers a glimpse into another culture while addressing universal themes. Opens the way for meaningful conversations on acceptance, adoption, and navigating complex feelings. Excellent way to add diversity to young readers’ bookshelves.
July 30, 2020
This is a really good book! I loved how the author added in themes for people to understand when they read the story. I also liked the way Avantika deals with her problems, especially her hair and the mysterious but friendly Paati. She finds a way to be positive.
July 1, 2020
//Today, I made a new friend, Vibha. She actually thinks I have lovely hair. She is the first person to say that. I don't know how to feel about it. I mean, my hair is the kind that no matter how much you pull it with a comb or a brush, it will always bounce right back like a spring. But imagine, she still liked it. I am happy of course, but I also wish I had hair like amma and Avnish. Sometimes, I think my birth mother must have had curly hair, which is why I have curly hair too.//
Excerpted from Why is My Hair Curly? By Lakshmi Iyer
Avantika has two problems.
Problem number 1, is her curly hair, that is so unlike everyone else in her family. While she, and her brother, Avnish, are both adopted, he has hair like their mom, but she doesn't. Kids in her class tease her about it, calling her 'Medusa' and 'Sai Baba,' and it makes her feel different and not beautiful at all. She wonders if her birth mother had hair like this too, and if she would have known how to tame these curls!
Problem number 2, is the mysterious old woman who keeps staring at her. Every time Avantika decides to say hi, the woman disappears! Who is the old woman? Why does she stare at Avantika?
By the end of Why is My Hair Curly? we get delightful, heartwarming solutions to both these problems.
There are many reasons that this book is a valuable addition to any bookshelf.
Firstly, for those in the US, it is a great way to introduce young readers to cultures other than their own and to build empathy. Set in Chennai, India, it offers a realistic glimpse into middle class India, that steers clear from stereotypes that the West usually associates India with, such as the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, the elephants and snake charmers and the fetishized poverty.
Secondly, it features children who adopted, and deals with some of the varied emotions that adopted children may experience with regards to their identity. So, it becomes a great way to start conversations with children about adoption and build empathy. For children who are adopted, it becomes a way to see themselves in a book.
Thirdly, the book is suitable for many different ages. While younger children may just enjoy the simplicity and humourous elements in the plot, older children may notice the nuances and in it, and this again, can spark important conversations. The fact that there are layers, makes it an engrossing read for adults too! Frankly, I didn'tnwnay the book to end, and wanted to read for a little longer, because Avantika stole my heart!
And why wouldn't she? She is intelligent, perceptive, and a voracious reader, to the point that she would rather sit alone and read at recess rather than talk to her friends (just like me 😜). I honestly wish I'd had someone like her to read about and connect with when I was a child.
The illustrations by Niloufer Wadia are a perfect accompaniment to the text, bringing into sharper focus key moments in the narrative. To her credit, she has captured the essence of the characters, especially, Avantika, and her natural brightness.
If I say anything more, I'm afraid l'll give out too many spoilers. All I can say is this, go get a copy of this book immediately! And read it together, as a family, because it is that kind of a book. ❤️
Excerpted from Why is My Hair Curly? By Lakshmi Iyer
Avantika has two problems.
Problem number 1, is her curly hair, that is so unlike everyone else in her family. While she, and her brother, Avnish, are both adopted, he has hair like their mom, but she doesn't. Kids in her class tease her about it, calling her 'Medusa' and 'Sai Baba,' and it makes her feel different and not beautiful at all. She wonders if her birth mother had hair like this too, and if she would have known how to tame these curls!
Problem number 2, is the mysterious old woman who keeps staring at her. Every time Avantika decides to say hi, the woman disappears! Who is the old woman? Why does she stare at Avantika?
By the end of Why is My Hair Curly? we get delightful, heartwarming solutions to both these problems.
There are many reasons that this book is a valuable addition to any bookshelf.
Firstly, for those in the US, it is a great way to introduce young readers to cultures other than their own and to build empathy. Set in Chennai, India, it offers a realistic glimpse into middle class India, that steers clear from stereotypes that the West usually associates India with, such as the glitz and glamour of Bollywood, the elephants and snake charmers and the fetishized poverty.
Secondly, it features children who adopted, and deals with some of the varied emotions that adopted children may experience with regards to their identity. So, it becomes a great way to start conversations with children about adoption and build empathy. For children who are adopted, it becomes a way to see themselves in a book.
Thirdly, the book is suitable for many different ages. While younger children may just enjoy the simplicity and humourous elements in the plot, older children may notice the nuances and in it, and this again, can spark important conversations. The fact that there are layers, makes it an engrossing read for adults too! Frankly, I didn'tnwnay the book to end, and wanted to read for a little longer, because Avantika stole my heart!
And why wouldn't she? She is intelligent, perceptive, and a voracious reader, to the point that she would rather sit alone and read at recess rather than talk to her friends (just like me 😜). I honestly wish I'd had someone like her to read about and connect with when I was a child.
The illustrations by Niloufer Wadia are a perfect accompaniment to the text, bringing into sharper focus key moments in the narrative. To her credit, she has captured the essence of the characters, especially, Avantika, and her natural brightness.
If I say anything more, I'm afraid l'll give out too many spoilers. All I can say is this, go get a copy of this book immediately! And read it together, as a family, because it is that kind of a book. ❤️
July 17, 2020
LOVED this book. Not too many books out there with a south Asian protagonist and the authentic use of language and references to culture. A beautiful, honest and inspiring book for young adults, who are finding themselves in their own skin.
July 6, 2020
Why is my hair curly?
Author : Lakshmi Iyer
Publisher : Westland Books
(I was sent an advance copy for an honest review. I also bought the audible version to check out the audio book, as well.)
Age group - 8 +
‘Why is my hair curly’ is the story of ten year old Avantika’s quest fo understand her curly hair. Set in Chennai, the story takes us through her life as she struggles with bad hair days and the yearning to fit in with her adoptive family from head to toe. While there are days she wishes she had straight hair like her mother, there are also days when she wonders if her curly hair is a legacy from her biological mother or someone from her biological family. She deals with her emotions by writing expressively in her precious journal and the story takes another turn when she makes an unusual friend.
I enjoyed the book for its nuanced depiction of Avantika’s feelings and journey as a much-loved adopted child. The relationship between mothers and daughters was beautifully etched out. I also appreciate how the struggle of working mothers was included in the story in a very real way. Adding to the overall experience was the lovely Tamizh flavour. I loved how story used ‘curly hair’ to tell a story about genetics, identity and belonging.
Overall, I highly recommend this book.
Available as an Ebook, audio book and a print book (July 20th)
Author : Lakshmi Iyer
Publisher : Westland Books
(I was sent an advance copy for an honest review. I also bought the audible version to check out the audio book, as well.)
Age group - 8 +
‘Why is my hair curly’ is the story of ten year old Avantika’s quest fo understand her curly hair. Set in Chennai, the story takes us through her life as she struggles with bad hair days and the yearning to fit in with her adoptive family from head to toe. While there are days she wishes she had straight hair like her mother, there are also days when she wonders if her curly hair is a legacy from her biological mother or someone from her biological family. She deals with her emotions by writing expressively in her precious journal and the story takes another turn when she makes an unusual friend.
I enjoyed the book for its nuanced depiction of Avantika’s feelings and journey as a much-loved adopted child. The relationship between mothers and daughters was beautifully etched out. I also appreciate how the struggle of working mothers was included in the story in a very real way. Adding to the overall experience was the lovely Tamizh flavour. I loved how story used ‘curly hair’ to tell a story about genetics, identity and belonging.
Overall, I highly recommend this book.
Available as an Ebook, audio book and a print book (July 20th)
July 3, 2020
Review of the book by my 9 year old.
The book is about a girl named Avantika, whose problems started with her hair. At the end, though, she learns to accept herself for who she is.
Some of her problems are going to school late, because of missing the bus, teasing at school, because of “silly” hair. She is adopted, and thinks her birth mother would have had the same hair as her, but then she meets her mother's mother, and she has curly hair like Avantika, while Avantika’s mother has perfectly straight hair, so she realizes that everyone is different.
The book has a good moral : Accept yourself for who you are.
I was able to relate to Avantika, because my hair is also curly and hard to brush. I’m sure that other readers will be able to relate with curly hair, and other things, like being teased at school, being late to school because of your hair, too.
“Why is my Hair Curly” by Lakshmi Iyer is interesting because something keeps happening, and the author keeps the readers engaged. The book is also very descriptive. Things like “face lit up with joy” and “flying under the radar, aligning…”
If you are a person who likes to read fast paced stories, then “Why is my Hair Curly” by Lakshmi Iyer is the perfect book for you.
The book is about a girl named Avantika, whose problems started with her hair. At the end, though, she learns to accept herself for who she is.
Some of her problems are going to school late, because of missing the bus, teasing at school, because of “silly” hair. She is adopted, and thinks her birth mother would have had the same hair as her, but then she meets her mother's mother, and she has curly hair like Avantika, while Avantika’s mother has perfectly straight hair, so she realizes that everyone is different.
The book has a good moral : Accept yourself for who you are.
I was able to relate to Avantika, because my hair is also curly and hard to brush. I’m sure that other readers will be able to relate with curly hair, and other things, like being teased at school, being late to school because of your hair, too.
“Why is my Hair Curly” by Lakshmi Iyer is interesting because something keeps happening, and the author keeps the readers engaged. The book is also very descriptive. Things like “face lit up with joy” and “flying under the radar, aligning…”
If you are a person who likes to read fast paced stories, then “Why is my Hair Curly” by Lakshmi Iyer is the perfect book for you.
August 7, 2020
Why Is My Hair Curly? truly encompasses a powerful meaning in the form of a children's book. Speaking from my perspective as a bookseller, I often find that the children's book section is oversaturated with picture books that have arbitrary and obsolete messages that don't apply to children (or any human) at all. However, the target audience of children is the only element that Why Is My Hair Curly? has in common with those books. Lakshmi Iyer takes a somewhat unorthodox topic (curly haired girls that are adopted) and transforms it into a riveting story that I, a 17 year old, couldn't put down. The short novel with beautiful illustrations creates an emotional harmony of family bonding, acceptance, and a perfect amount of suspense. I honestly commend Iyer on her ability to capture a child's perception of the world around her. The only piece of criticism I have is the fact that the glossary isn't in the Table of Contents. As a non-South Indian, some of the words were a little difficult to comprehend, and I only found out at the end that there was a glossary with definitions. Other than that, I would recommend this book to anyone, children/teens/adults, curly hair/straight hair/no hair, adopted or not.
June 5, 2021
Why is My Hair Curly? is about a girl who is constantly troubled at the sight of her curly hair because it makes her feel lonely in a family with straight and smooth hair. But the story is not just about her hair; it is a metaphor of feeling different, as Avantika and her brother are adopted. However, she is totally unbothered by this fact except when it comes to her hair. She wonders if her birth mother had curly hair and this gives birth to a vague desire in her to see her real mother. How she comes to terms with her hair is the crux of the story.
Set in India, following the modern family setup, it touches upon some serious topics like that od adoption, self-acceptance. Small everyday things like- snacking on the train, excitement of the first day of school, nasty cousins- makes the story very relatable to the young as well as to the old. The story is funny, has various twists and turns, and touches upon a series of serious topics such as that of adoption, self-acceptance, identity, plight of working mothers. Despite all these factors, @lakshgiri has kept storytelling as light as possible and the illustrations by @niloufer.artist are a perfect accompaniment to the text, bringing into sharper focus key moments in the narrative, this is exactly what makes it a wonderful read for all ages.
Set in India, following the modern family setup, it touches upon some serious topics like that od adoption, self-acceptance. Small everyday things like- snacking on the train, excitement of the first day of school, nasty cousins- makes the story very relatable to the young as well as to the old. The story is funny, has various twists and turns, and touches upon a series of serious topics such as that of adoption, self-acceptance, identity, plight of working mothers. Despite all these factors, @lakshgiri has kept storytelling as light as possible and the illustrations by @niloufer.artist are a perfect accompaniment to the text, bringing into sharper focus key moments in the narrative, this is exactly what makes it a wonderful read for all ages.
July 11, 2021
‘Why is My Hair Curly?’ is a quirky read that highlights the emotional and hormonal changes that teenagers undergo. This is the story of Avantika who is an adorable child. She is lovable and intelligent. Yet when it comes to her curly hair, she doesn’t know how to tame the curls. Like any other girl of her age, she wishes for straighter her, something more manageable. As life progresses, her encounters with bullies and some strangers help her understand the value of accepting herself. The story is enjoyable because of the agreeable language and pleasing characters. Even though Avantika is adopted, her maturity is evident when she accepts that her foster parents care for her more than her biological mother would have. Touching upon several themes like accepting oneself and taking a stand for one’s uniqueness, adoption, family dynamics and finding comfort in a stranger’s words, this story is relevant. It does provide some genuine moments of laughter too.
July 4, 2020
A Literary Winner!
A well written book for kids and that child in all of us. Lakshmi’s style of writing keeps you hooked to the storyline till the very end. The minute details about the kids vacation and their travel made me go back in time.
Above all, the underlying theme of the story and the clarity at the end was a breathe of fresh air. Certainly want to avoid the spoilers :)
A refreshing and delightful read!
A well written book for kids and that child in all of us. Lakshmi’s style of writing keeps you hooked to the storyline till the very end. The minute details about the kids vacation and their travel made me go back in time.
Above all, the underlying theme of the story and the clarity at the end was a breathe of fresh air. Certainly want to avoid the spoilers :)
A refreshing and delightful read!
May 30, 2021
Wholesome.
Reading children's books is always so satisfying but then this one is was just so wholesome. Especially because I could relate so much , for most of my childhood was spent rumbling about my curly hair and how unruly it was. So, this one was like that special ancedote book which reminded me how early in the morning during my schooltime , my mother would shout at me for not waking up early just to comb my hair properly or for most of my childhood I was forced into having a "Boy-cut".
It's just awesome and sure to bring you back memories of your summer vacations and those train trips with your parents.
Reading children's books is always so satisfying but then this one is was just so wholesome. Especially because I could relate so much , for most of my childhood was spent rumbling about my curly hair and how unruly it was. So, this one was like that special ancedote book which reminded me how early in the morning during my schooltime , my mother would shout at me for not waking up early just to comb my hair properly or for most of my childhood I was forced into having a "Boy-cut".
It's just awesome and sure to bring you back memories of your summer vacations and those train trips with your parents.
June 1, 2021
This is the story of Avantika who is struggling with having curly because she gets called "Medusa" and how being adopted sets her different from the rest of her family and friends.
It's a lovely middle grade read with beautiful illustrations, lots of relatable Indian summer & back to school content and in true Desi fashion, a heartwarming take of family ✨
It's a lovely middle grade read with beautiful illustrations, lots of relatable Indian summer & back to school content and in true Desi fashion, a heartwarming take of family ✨
August 10, 2024
Rating - 3.2 stars
NPS - 7 (Neutral)
This is a short, kids’ book, about how standing out from the crowd does not make you anomaly. The correct age group to read this is girls from the ages 8 to 13.
The context here is curly hair, but the story can fit in any context. Read this as a light book.
Again, recommended for kids.
NPS - 7 (Neutral)
This is a short, kids’ book, about how standing out from the crowd does not make you anomaly. The correct age group to read this is girls from the ages 8 to 13.
The context here is curly hair, but the story can fit in any context. Read this as a light book.
Again, recommended for kids.
July 7, 2021
Such a cute story ❤
July 9, 2021
Truly endearing and a feel- good book. Its a fast read but covers multiple issues like curly hair, acceptance of oneself, adoption, growing up pangs and even teaching kids about good and bad touch. Very crisp and vivid writing.
My rating 5/5
My rating 5/5
July 6, 2020
AMAZING
This is an amazing book about being different from the rest and embracing it. SUPER GOOD JOB WRITING THIS BOOK!!
This is an amazing book about being different from the rest and embracing it. SUPER GOOD JOB WRITING THIS BOOK!!
December 30, 2020
Beautifully written story! The details and descriptions took me back to my own childhood. The final message was something that brought about a warmth in my heart! :) Looking forward to more stories penned by the author, Lakshmi. :)
June 21, 2021
As a person with curly hair, I understand the struggle to manage your hair. This books depicts that well. The book has good family dynamics as well.
June 16, 2021
Short and easy read.
Refreshing to read books meant for young adults.
I could relate with the dilemma girl faced. No, never had curly hairs but all in family are super intelligent and I was like just average student and felt as if I am adopted one!
In glossary, could notice one small error.
CSK: Abbreviation for Chennai Super Kings, a cricket team in the International Premier League.
It should be Indian Premier League.
Refreshing to read books meant for young adults.
I could relate with the dilemma girl faced. No, never had curly hairs but all in family are super intelligent and I was like just average student and felt as if I am adopted one!
In glossary, could notice one small error.
CSK: Abbreviation for Chennai Super Kings, a cricket team in the International Premier League.
It should be Indian Premier League.
July 23, 2020
Lakshmi Iyer in her debut book, reveals a deep understanding of the world of children. About what they hold dear, and what they feel strongly about and the world viewed from their perspective.
The confidence and security of being adopted while straddling the many layers of challenges it brings in its wake, the presence of their grandmother on the father's side who fiercely loves them and pampers them ( Every child has or longs for such a figure in their life), the kind chitappa who tries to make up for his rude family, the journey by train, the affirmation for the first time from the outside world for her curly hair, an aspect often ridiculed or teased about within one's own family, Why is my hair curly is a delightful coming of age story, and self-acceptance of Avantika. While Avnish is a secondary character, looking up to his elder sister, expressing his solidarity with how they were treated by their cousins or being indignant about missing a treat... he manages to hold his own well.
The pace of the book is excellent, and forces one to read it at one go without putting the book down, and it says much about the skills of Ms.Lakshmi Iyer. The drawings are simply delightful and breathe life into the book.
The ambience of the train, descriptions of their home, their lifestyles, the classroom or the playground are all excellently detailed out with a few humourous instances to add flavour. One wishes a few more interactions with the parents, especially the father, or all of them together though, since they seem a rather interesting family.
Ms.Iyer has woven complex subjects of identity, independence, safety, acceptance and also responsibility in a young child rather seamlessly and brilliantly into the book. Also, what works rather beautifully is the way the adults treat the children with a great deal of respect, and have no qualms apologizing when wrong. There is no talking down to a child, which is rather refreshing. Avantika's protective streak towards her mother etc, reveal the detailed understanding that Ms.Iyer has in tuning into how young children think.
The nativity of the book, and its easy references to the daily lives of an Indian child in a metro city is refreshing.
I had a cultural conflict though in the descriptions of many of the foods and delicacies that are fondly passed on by Vincent's mother, the children's grandmother. Most of the items do not seem the standard, common fare found in a Tamil, Christian home but rather standard fare found in Tamil Brahmin Houses. Use of words like Bakshanam instead of Theeni or Palakaram etc, Vadagams, Maavadu as a favourite pickle etc are not common to a christian home at all. Also, the complete absence of any non-vegetarian fare amidst a lot of food descriptions at their home seem a bit odd unless their home revolves around Radha's dietary preferences. Even then, the likelihood of those impacting Vincent's family is a bit remote. The father welcoming Saraswathy Paati with a Ulla Vaango instead of a more likely Ulla Vaanga... are confusing. The aspect of the parents being from different religions and the mother Radha hence not being in touch with her mother or that tension is not felt much because of some of these maybe? It could be that the author drew from her own cultural background instead of weaving it around the lives of the characters she has created with respect to food.
A delightful read nevertheless, and one that will bring a huge, huge grin on your face, Why is my hair curly? is a delightful pick. Lakshmi Iyer scores easily in creating an easy to love and relate to characters and an extremely believable story in a difficult to put down book. Looking eagerly forward to her next works. Definitely a 5 star from my side!
The confidence and security of being adopted while straddling the many layers of challenges it brings in its wake, the presence of their grandmother on the father's side who fiercely loves them and pampers them ( Every child has or longs for such a figure in their life), the kind chitappa who tries to make up for his rude family, the journey by train, the affirmation for the first time from the outside world for her curly hair, an aspect often ridiculed or teased about within one's own family, Why is my hair curly is a delightful coming of age story, and self-acceptance of Avantika. While Avnish is a secondary character, looking up to his elder sister, expressing his solidarity with how they were treated by their cousins or being indignant about missing a treat... he manages to hold his own well.
The pace of the book is excellent, and forces one to read it at one go without putting the book down, and it says much about the skills of Ms.Lakshmi Iyer. The drawings are simply delightful and breathe life into the book.
The ambience of the train, descriptions of their home, their lifestyles, the classroom or the playground are all excellently detailed out with a few humourous instances to add flavour. One wishes a few more interactions with the parents, especially the father, or all of them together though, since they seem a rather interesting family.
Ms.Iyer has woven complex subjects of identity, independence, safety, acceptance and also responsibility in a young child rather seamlessly and brilliantly into the book. Also, what works rather beautifully is the way the adults treat the children with a great deal of respect, and have no qualms apologizing when wrong. There is no talking down to a child, which is rather refreshing. Avantika's protective streak towards her mother etc, reveal the detailed understanding that Ms.Iyer has in tuning into how young children think.
The nativity of the book, and its easy references to the daily lives of an Indian child in a metro city is refreshing.
I had a cultural conflict though in the descriptions of many of the foods and delicacies that are fondly passed on by Vincent's mother, the children's grandmother. Most of the items do not seem the standard, common fare found in a Tamil, Christian home but rather standard fare found in Tamil Brahmin Houses. Use of words like Bakshanam instead of Theeni or Palakaram etc, Vadagams, Maavadu as a favourite pickle etc are not common to a christian home at all. Also, the complete absence of any non-vegetarian fare amidst a lot of food descriptions at their home seem a bit odd unless their home revolves around Radha's dietary preferences. Even then, the likelihood of those impacting Vincent's family is a bit remote. The father welcoming Saraswathy Paati with a Ulla Vaango instead of a more likely Ulla Vaanga... are confusing. The aspect of the parents being from different religions and the mother Radha hence not being in touch with her mother or that tension is not felt much because of some of these maybe? It could be that the author drew from her own cultural background instead of weaving it around the lives of the characters she has created with respect to food.
A delightful read nevertheless, and one that will bring a huge, huge grin on your face, Why is my hair curly? is a delightful pick. Lakshmi Iyer scores easily in creating an easy to love and relate to characters and an extremely believable story in a difficult to put down book. Looking eagerly forward to her next works. Definitely a 5 star from my side!
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