Samina Goes to a Wedding: Celebrations from a Bangladeshi Marriage

K-Gr 2–In Zaman’s book, a North American girl named Samina travels halfway around the world to experience her first Bangladeshi wedding. Upon Samina’s arrival in Bangladesh, her same-age cousin guides her through the fun activities in the days leading up to and including the wedding, while inset boxes further explain the wedding customs. For instance, the bride’s family provides the wedding attire for the groom, and vice versa, to unify the two families. The groom’s family sends two fish dressed as bride and groom to wish the bride a long and happy marriage. There are ceremonies where turmeric paste is applied to bride and groom, and henna designs are carefully drawn on the bride and the bridal party. The tradition of Rong Khela finds the wedding party and guests all dressed in white and hurling fluorescent-colored powder at each other. Add a wedding ceremony that feels like a fairy tale, dancing with bells around one’s ankles, and all the delicious food, and this is an occasion to thrill any romantic child. More a description than a story, this book is enlivened by festive illustrations in vibrant spreads. Back matter includes an illustrated glossary, a pronunciation guide, and an author’s note that describes some of the dishes prepared for a Bangladeshi wedding.