The Katha Chest
by CHOWDHURY, Radhiah & NAIDU, Lavanya
ISBN: 9781760524326
Australian: Yes
Published: 2021 by Allen & Unwin
Level: Early Years (R-2)
Picture book , Family & Relationships , Asian Content
The author explains that the story is based on her Bengali family background and the light quilts, called kathas, used in every household and made of layers of cotton saris so old that they are no longer wearable. Kathas tell their stories in the fabrics that are created in traditional ways. The illustrator, Lavanya Naidu, tells the stories through illustrations which support the story of Asiya who loves going to Nanu’s house and explores the treasure chest filled with quilts as well as through pages designed in four panels which tell the family stories of the families and individuals. The book is supported with teaching resources on the Allen and Unwin website. A delightful book on several levels.