The simple words to this book can be read or sung to the tune of "Frere Jacques"; they describe preparations for rakhi ("rah-KEY"), "an Indian festival in which brothers and sisters celebrate their love and respect for each other." A sister prepares a special thread bracelet for her brother, and he gives her sweets to eat.

Back matter includes "Do you want to make a rakhi?" with a list of materials, instructions, and a glossary. ( )

This book is precious and it was interesting to learn about this festival that celebrations brothers and sisters.

Mother-son author team Surishtha and Kabir Sehgal, whose previous titles include A Bucket of Blessings, The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk and Festival of Colors, explore the Hindu festival of Raksha Bandhan in this fourth picture-book. An annual holiday intended to celebrate the bond between brothers and sisters, it involves the gift of a rakhi - a decorative bracelet containing a talisman of some sort - from the sister to the brother, and a gift of sweets or jewelry in return. Using the classic song, "Frère Jacques" (AKA "Brother John") as a basis, the simple, sing-song text here follows two girls as they make a rakhi for their brother, tie it on him, and receive some gifts in exchange. A brief afterword includes instructions on making a rakhi, and a simple glossary of terms...

The third picture-book I have read from the Seghal family, Thread of Love pairs an engaging read-aloud narrative with bright, colorful artwork. I had never heard of Raksha Bandhan before picking up this title, so I was happy to learn a little bit more about Hindu and Indian customs, in this regard. I do wish a few more details about the festival had been given, in the (very) brief foreword, but I would imagine that for most young children the explanation presented will be enough. The text itself works quite well, I think, especially if one is familiar with the original song, and reads along using its rhythm. The artwork from Zara Gonzalez Hoang, who appears to be making her debut here, is quite cute and expressive, if a little too cartoonish for my taste. Recommended to anyone looking for children's stories about the bond between siblings, or featuring Hindu and/or Indian families and cultural customs. ( )