Naima and Mitali Perkins

Front

Naima loves to create traditional alpana patterns.

Back

Alpana patterns are traditional designs painted by Bangladeshi women and girls for special celebrations.

Front

Materials used in alpana

Back

Crushed rice powder, colored chalk, vermilion, flower petals, wheat, or lentil powder are used in alpana designs.

Front

When did the homes in Naima's village look different?

Back

on holidays when girls decorated them with alpanas.

Front

What are alpanas?

Back

painted patterns used to decorate paths and thresholds.

Front

What did Naima's village celebrate on International Mother Language Day?

Back

the beauty of their Bangla language.

Front

Secret signal between Naima and Saleem

Back

Saleem tucked a white handkerchief into his pocket; Naima tied a white bow on her braid

Front

Naima made a face. "I know," she said.

Back

Naima acknowledged her sister's comment with a face.

Front

"And I can't move fast in a saree."

Back

Naima expressed difficulty moving fast in a saree.

Front

Naima's responsibility towards her sister

Back

Naima takes care of her sister like a tiger guarding a cub.

Front

Rashida loved a specific treat.

Back

She loved juicy roshogollah.