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Bravo Anjali!
For Anjali, playing the tabla is something that comes naturally. She loves the feel of the drum beneath her fingers and getting lost in the music. But when the boys in her class give her a hard time for being better than them, she messes up on purpose.
When her teacher announces a contest where the winner will get to perform with him at his next concert, Anjali is distraught. Winning the contest would be a dream for Anjali. But it seems like the better she gets, the meaner some of the kids are.
In this follow-up to Always Anjali, Anjali realizes that she should never let anyone make her feel bad for being good at something. An important story for all children to remember to ’never dim their light.
When her teacher announces a contest where the winner will get to perform with him at his next concert, Anjali is distraught. Winning the contest would be a dream for Anjali. But it seems like the better she gets, the meaner some of the kids are.
In this follow-up to Always Anjali, Anjali realizes that she should never let anyone make her feel bad for being good at something. An important story for all children to remember to ’never dim their light.
38 pages, Hardcover
Published September 21, 2021
2 people are currently reading
1200 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 23, 2021
I really enjoyed this book because of the message it sent about letting your light shine bright. The illustrations were also amazing and perfectly captured Anjali's frustration over her best friend talking badly about her and classmates making fun of her.
September 24, 2021
(Disclaimer: I received this book from the publisher. This has not impacted my review which is unbiased and honest.)
more like a 3.5
Bravo Anjali! is colorful and charming. It's a story about gender stereotypes, friendship break ups, and celebrating our light. The world can tell us what we should do, all the ways we should stop being what they don't expect. But it's up to us to stay true to ourselves, our passions, and our own light. While the ending felt a bit hasty, I loved how thoughtful Bravo Anjali! is.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
more like a 3.5
Bravo Anjali! is colorful and charming. It's a story about gender stereotypes, friendship break ups, and celebrating our light. The world can tell us what we should do, all the ways we should stop being what they don't expect. But it's up to us to stay true to ourselves, our passions, and our own light. While the ending felt a bit hasty, I loved how thoughtful Bravo Anjali! is.
full review: https://utopia-state-of-mind.com/revi...
December 17, 2021
✨Review✨
Two years ago Sheetal Sheth came to the school I work at to share her book ALWAYS ANJALI with our students. She was wonderful and I can’t begin to tell you how excited my students were that I received a gifted copy of her next book, BRAVO ANJALI, thanks to @booksforwardpr 🥳
“An important story for all children to remember to never dim their light.”
My students loved the book, they adore the character of Anjali, and they hope another book is on the way. We even did an activity inspired by the book where they drew pictures of what they are passionate about as a reminder to never dim their light. 🤍
5/5 ⭐️
Two years ago Sheetal Sheth came to the school I work at to share her book ALWAYS ANJALI with our students. She was wonderful and I can’t begin to tell you how excited my students were that I received a gifted copy of her next book, BRAVO ANJALI, thanks to @booksforwardpr 🥳
“An important story for all children to remember to never dim their light.”
My students loved the book, they adore the character of Anjali, and they hope another book is on the way. We even did an activity inspired by the book where they drew pictures of what they are passionate about as a reminder to never dim their light. 🤍
5/5 ⭐️
January 12, 2022
"Never dim your light, girl."
What a beautifully illustrated story about a young girl who finds the strength within herself to be proud of who she is and what she can do.
What a great message for our littles to hear. No matter what, always do your best and shine bright. I can't wait to share this with my grandbabies.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Books Forward for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
What a beautifully illustrated story about a young girl who finds the strength within herself to be proud of who she is and what she can do.
What a great message for our littles to hear. No matter what, always do your best and shine bright. I can't wait to share this with my grandbabies.
I sincerely appreciate the publisher and Books Forward for providing me with a review copy. All opinions expressed herein are mine and mine alone.
December 4, 2025
Bravo Anjali! follows an Indian American girl, Anjali, who loves playing the tabla and is proud of playing it. When she begins to shine her friends start to feel jealous which causes her to shrink her personality to avoid making her friends uncomfortable. With encouragement she learns that dimming her light does not help anyone. I chose this book because it teaches that nobody should feel pressured to hide their strengths. So, after reading this book it is perfect to take about how each student should be proud of who they are.
September 23, 2021
This book has a great lesson in it, especially for little girls.
Anjali loves to play the tabla, but it is traditionally played by boys. As the only girl in class, she’s taunted by a little boy who used to be her friend. Soon there will be a recital where the class performs to win the opportunity to play with the teacher in his upcoming concert.
While I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, with the beautiful cover and artwork along with the message, I would’ve bought it for my 4 year old anyway.
Anjali loves to play the tabla, but it is traditionally played by boys. As the only girl in class, she’s taunted by a little boy who used to be her friend. Soon there will be a recital where the class performs to win the opportunity to play with the teacher in his upcoming concert.
While I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway, with the beautiful cover and artwork along with the message, I would’ve bought it for my 4 year old anyway.
September 9, 2021
This books shines with inspiration and joyful illustrations.
Anjali is very good at playing the tabla and enjoys it, too, but when a boy at school begins to bug her about being able to play better than he can, she decides it might make things easier for her to act as if she can't really play that well. That seems to work okay until the teacher announces an upcoming contest. Anjali would really like to give her best and win, but the harder she tries, the more the other kids bug her. Finally, she decides there's only one thing left for her to do.
First off, I really enjoyed the illustrations. Not only do they bring Anjali, the other kids and her family across nicely, but there are scenes, which allow fantasy to also flow in. It gives the entire thing a fun atmosphere and keeps the important message still light.
The author addresses a situation which kids can relate to, while also adding a bit of cultural information and flair. The two slide together seamlessly together, and that while also creating a tale and a character young readers can enjoy. The text is simple enough from the vocabulary end of things but is a little longer, making it not for the youngest reader. It's just right for the intended age group, however, and also works well as a read-aloud.
The message is inspiring and encourages kids not to bend to those, who don't try to support them. It's definitely a tale which leaves the reader rooting for Anjali and smiling when she succeeds.
I received an ARC and enjoyed Anjali's bravery.
Anjali is very good at playing the tabla and enjoys it, too, but when a boy at school begins to bug her about being able to play better than he can, she decides it might make things easier for her to act as if she can't really play that well. That seems to work okay until the teacher announces an upcoming contest. Anjali would really like to give her best and win, but the harder she tries, the more the other kids bug her. Finally, she decides there's only one thing left for her to do.
First off, I really enjoyed the illustrations. Not only do they bring Anjali, the other kids and her family across nicely, but there are scenes, which allow fantasy to also flow in. It gives the entire thing a fun atmosphere and keeps the important message still light.
The author addresses a situation which kids can relate to, while also adding a bit of cultural information and flair. The two slide together seamlessly together, and that while also creating a tale and a character young readers can enjoy. The text is simple enough from the vocabulary end of things but is a little longer, making it not for the youngest reader. It's just right for the intended age group, however, and also works well as a read-aloud.
The message is inspiring and encourages kids not to bend to those, who don't try to support them. It's definitely a tale which leaves the reader rooting for Anjali and smiling when she succeeds.
I received an ARC and enjoyed Anjali's bravery.
January 11, 2022
Bravo Anjali! by Sheetal Sheth, the second Anjali book appearing after Always Anjali, will fairly jump from bookstore shelves with dazzling colors, stars, swirls, and yes, the beautiful Indian girl, Anjali. London-based illustrator Lucia Soto beautifully depicts a lively classroom full of wide-eyed, diverse children, each with a uniqueness of expression that parents and children everywhere will recognize and love. The illustrator's exquisite details in Anjali's living room should not be overlooked either.
But the illustrations provide the frame for a goldmine of a story about a young girl playing tabla—a typically male practice. Within the tale, important messages are brought forward. In just over thirty gorgeous pages, the author smoothly navigates a bully in the classroom, jealousy, an upstander in the restroom, frustration, rage, determination, success, and an apology. Bravo Anjali!, simply written for children, packs a punch of powerful messaging that young children need to hear. For in the sharing of this story, young people will understand that they can do wonders in this world by taking ownership of their true interests and going forth with confident pizazz.
I highly recommend this book for young children, ages three to eight perhaps. I think pre-school and elementary classrooms and libraries everywhere should keep a copy of this on hand.
Story Circle Book Reviews thanks Shawn LaTorre for this review.
But the illustrations provide the frame for a goldmine of a story about a young girl playing tabla—a typically male practice. Within the tale, important messages are brought forward. In just over thirty gorgeous pages, the author smoothly navigates a bully in the classroom, jealousy, an upstander in the restroom, frustration, rage, determination, success, and an apology. Bravo Anjali!, simply written for children, packs a punch of powerful messaging that young children need to hear. For in the sharing of this story, young people will understand that they can do wonders in this world by taking ownership of their true interests and going forth with confident pizazz.
I highly recommend this book for young children, ages three to eight perhaps. I think pre-school and elementary classrooms and libraries everywhere should keep a copy of this on hand.
Story Circle Book Reviews thanks Shawn LaTorre for this review.
July 10, 2022
This lovely story of a young girl playing the tabla, a pair of twin hand drums often seen in Hindu and Sikh communities and traditionally played by men. Anjali is in a class where she is the only girl and a boy in class is teasing her for her showing off. Anjali is practicing hard and really wants to play the instrument she loves, but is frustrated by Deepak's comments as they used to be friends. Later when setting up her practice tabla at home her mother's friend comments on how sweet she is to set it up for her father, but her father proudly notes that the instrument belongs to Anjali. Deepak continues to make mean comments at school in their class. When the teacher tells them they will be working together to lead a class project, Anjali leaves the room and tries to calm herself in the bathroom. A 5th grade student hears her frustrations and tells her not to let anyone dim her light. This simple comment has force and has a strong impact on Anjali. The illustrations by Lucia Soto are magnificent and help to carry the story forward with pizzazz and wonder and include many details throughout inviting readers back again and again!
If you are in need of titles that are diverse characters, non-traditional music connections, or that will offer strength and light to those facing adversity, you have found one! This is a lovely addition to any collection for childen.
If you are in need of titles that are diverse characters, non-traditional music connections, or that will offer strength and light to those facing adversity, you have found one! This is a lovely addition to any collection for childen.
December 3, 2021
In this follow-up to the previous Always Anjali, the protagonist is experiencing push-back from some of her classmates, especially from Deepak, her friend, about her abilities as a musician. Not only is Deepak casting her as a show-off, deprecating her abilities at playing the tabla, but also making fun of her and taking over in class. Anjali knows that she is a talented musician, but Deepak causes her to doubt herself and make mistakes deliberately. But a trip to the restroom and some encouraging words and advice from an older student makes her determined to play her best at the school recital rather than hiding or denying her talent out of false modesty and to placate her friend. The colorful artwork and matter of fact text makes it clear that no one needs to dim their light or avoid the spotlight. In Anjali's case, there are other little girls watching, and they will surely follow in her footsteps. As for Deepak, he is remorseful at the end, which wasn't unexpected. But I don't think I'd be too quick to forgive him for his rudeness and sexism. All too often, talented individuals, especially girls, seem reluctant to shine or take up much space. This picture book reminds them that they can and should.
March 11, 2022
This book was received as an ARC from Mango and Marigold Press in exchange for an honest review. Opinions and thoughts expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved this book from the message to the artistic, breathtaking illustrations. I knew the pain and struggle Anjali was going through giving up her love, talent, and passion just to please others. It's so sad that children resort to bullying for a way to empower and feel better about themselves rather than embracing her talent and maybe asking her for help! This book is a valuable lesson to never let the approval of others dictate your happiness. It's a clear reflection of one of my favorite quotes "Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket." The extravagant illustrations are just a bonus of enjoyment. This book is perfect for Storytime and in classrooms learning about emotions.
We will consider adding this title to our Picture Book collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
I loved this book from the message to the artistic, breathtaking illustrations. I knew the pain and struggle Anjali was going through giving up her love, talent, and passion just to please others. It's so sad that children resort to bullying for a way to empower and feel better about themselves rather than embracing her talent and maybe asking her for help! This book is a valuable lesson to never let the approval of others dictate your happiness. It's a clear reflection of one of my favorite quotes "Don't put the key to your happiness in someone else's pocket." The extravagant illustrations are just a bonus of enjoyment. This book is perfect for Storytime and in classrooms learning about emotions.
We will consider adding this title to our Picture Book collection at our library. That is why we give this book 5 stars.
January 14, 2024
Little Anjali naturally excels at playing the tabla, a percussion instrument native to India that is traditionally played by men. While she loves losing herself in the music while playing, she starts to doubt herself when her friends begin to treat her differently.
Anjali navigates this uncomfortable situation in such a realistic way for her age; she at first downplays her talent to avoid confrontation before finding her confidence and coming into her own. Both of my children, ages 5 and 7, really connected with the message of the story and were rooting for Anjali the whole way!
Alongside the sweet story are beautiful illustrations that lighten the tone with a whimsical vibe. I would absolutely recommend this to parents looking to fill their playroom with diverse books that have a meaningful message.
Anjali navigates this uncomfortable situation in such a realistic way for her age; she at first downplays her talent to avoid confrontation before finding her confidence and coming into her own. Both of my children, ages 5 and 7, really connected with the message of the story and were rooting for Anjali the whole way!
Alongside the sweet story are beautiful illustrations that lighten the tone with a whimsical vibe. I would absolutely recommend this to parents looking to fill their playroom with diverse books that have a meaningful message.
August 10, 2024
2024 Picture Book. Indian-American Author. Spanish-British Illustrator.
Summary:Anjali is the only girl playing the tabla. Overall message is, don't dim your light.
What I liked:Gorgeous illustration work. Inclusion of the tabla. An important message for young girls about not changing to make boys more comfortable.
What I didn't like:The story. Have you ever read a book and felt like you skipped a page? It was very confusing. I felt like some core details were missing. And some things just didn't make sense.
Overall,a hot mess. So disappointing, because the illustrations really are adorable, and picture books always benefit from diverse representation.
March 4, 2024
Girl deals with her friend treating her differently because he's jealous and people treating her differently because she is very good at playing an instrument traditionally played by males. She has to build up the courage to continue to practice and play her best at a recital, even if it means people will continue to treat her differently.
Characters (and instrument) are Indian-American.
Characters (and instrument) are Indian-American.
May 16, 2024
Anjali desires to be the best tabla drum player but finds resistance as a girl especially from her best friend Deepak who is actually jealous of her talents. Just when she is thinking about hiding her talents for the sake of them, she receives some sage advice from an older girl to show her light. When she does, her talents are applauded and even her friends apologize for their actions.
September 14, 2021
Thank you Edelweiss for an advanced copy. The illustrations are gorgeous, and I was happy to see at least one character with a hijab pictured, even if it was only in the background. This is a great quick read for class discussion on jealousy and competition in the classroom.
December 8, 2021
Anjali likes to play tabla (a type of drums) and she's really talented at them but traditionally only boys play them. The story deals with her doing an activity traditionally reserved for males and also her dealing with a friend's jealousy at her being better than he is on the instrument.
June 3, 2022
I loved this book and am excited to add it to my elementary counseling collection. What a wonderful message that amounts for gender bias, ability, and growth mindset! Being half-Indian and a woman, this also resonated with me so much more.
November 17, 2022
This is such a beautifully illustrated book with an amazing message to never dim your light. I love how Sheth incorporated the tabla- drums commonly played in Hindu and Sikh culture. I also liked how Sheth included a diverse classroom which relates to many classrooms today in America.
June 22, 2021
This is the perfect book to read with my daughter -- with stunning pictures and a story centering female empowerment, it'll be a favorite for many years to come!
October 14, 2021
Had me from the fabulously written opening line all through this story of Anjali showing girls how to keep shining and doing what they love!
February 13, 2022
Very cute and informative story. I loved that there were so many lessons for teachable moments in this book.
April 8, 2022
It was a fantastic story and I loved the message!
May 12, 2022
"Never dim your light, girl." ABSOLUTELY!
May 27, 2022
I'm lowkey mad this is a picture book, Anjali would make a perfect early chapter book series! I WANT MORE please, Sheetal Sheth :)
May 31, 2022
Very beautiful and inspiring. My daughters and I loved it!
August 11, 2022
Never dim your light girl!
October 9, 2022
Love the theme of teaching girls to never dim their light.
Pair with Not Quite Snow White, I Will Be Fierce, & Drum Dream Girl.
Pair with Not Quite Snow White, I Will Be Fierce, & Drum Dream Girl.
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June 21, 2023Such a cute and amazingly illustrated book for music lovers and a great story about confidence, perseverance, and reconciliation.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews