Lulu in the Spotlight: A South Asian Wedding Story

A seven-year-old schemes to win prize money at her cousin’s wedding in a lively picture book that centers South Asian wedding traditions. Lulu, who has determined that weddings are good for “one thing... prize money,” recollects the games played at previous such events, including blocking the groom’s entrance, stealing his shoes, and returning the shoes for “money... fame and fortune!” Being both underestimated and thwarted by three older cousins finds her ever more frustrated, but taking a breather under Nani’s shawl gives Lulu encouragement and leads to sweet moments of victory—and generosity, too. Kazi’s watercolor textures and digital palette of turquoise, magenta, and melon further brighten a high-energy family story that underlines how “laughter helps two families become one big family.” Characters are portrayed with various skin tones. A note about South Asian wedding customs and a glossary conclude. Ages 4–8. (Apr.)