BINDI BABES

Via a confident and agile narration, Wadia transports listeners across the pond for a vibrant slice-of-life story about three Indian sisters living in England. On the surface, tweenage siblings Amber, Geena and Jazz want for nothing. The girls always sport the latest in cool clothes, shoes and gadgets and have earned the label Bindi Babes from friends and classmates. But all the material fabulousness may just be a way to block out the void left by their mother, who died the year before. The girls' easygoing father works extra-long hours to provide his children with their boundless bounty but could use some help at home. Enter Auntie, Dad's sister, who comes to live with them. Auntie weighs in on everything and puts a stop to the excessive buying and over-the-top behavior. Naturally, the girls plot to get rid of her, by marrying her off. As the family navigates through tense moments and hilarious situations, listeners will hear the warm undertones of Auntie's actions and words—and how much good she is actually doing her nieces. With its intriguing blend of tones, suggesting Bollywood and Bend It Like Beckham , Dhami's cross-cultural tale will likely be a hit with preteen girls. Ages 8-12. (Aug.)