When their train makes a ten-minute stop at the station in Jaipur, a young girl and her mother hurry to get in line for a cup of chai. The girl orders two cups, and then delights in watching the chaiwala at work-grinding the spices, adding scoops of tea leaves and sugar to the bubbling, boiling milk, then cooling the chai by pouring it from high, back and forth, back and forth-the girl is mesmerized. With a biscuit and a rusk added to their order, mother and child find a spot in the crowded station to rest and enjoy the moment. And that first sip ... aaaahhh. Then it's time to wave goodbye to the chaiwala and hurry back to their train to continue their journey.

Chaiwala!

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Craft demo! Make a cup of chai with author Priti Birla Maheshwari and illustrator Ashley Barrron, inspired by Chawala!

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Read the CBC Books
profile here.

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Read the Kirkus
review here.

Fabriquer une tasse en papier! Un bricolage inspiré de Chaiwala! par auteure Priti Birla Maheshwari et illustratrice Ashley Barron.

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Read the NetGalley review here.

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Read the GoodReads review here.

AWARDS

  • Winner, TD Grade One Book Giveaway

  • Commended, A Best Children's Book of the Year

  • Commended, South Asia Book Award for Children’s and Young Adult Literature

  • Commended, Best Books for Kids and Teens

  • Commended, A Toronto Public Library First and Best List selection

  • Commended, A CBC Best Canadian Picture Book of 2021

  • Commended, A Loan Stars Jr. Top 10 Pick for September/October

  • Commended, A Bookstagang Best Picture Book of 2021

EDITORIAL REVIEWS

"A sensory celebration."

CanLit for Little Canadians

"A heartwarming little tale about one of the simplest things that brings people together ... A delightful read, one rich for all your senses."

Canadian Review of Materials

"Priti Birla Maheshwari’s vibrant text will have readers dreaming of a delicious cup of chai ... Ashley Barron’s illustrations are equally as inspiring as the text."

Storytime with Stephanie

"Particularly fun to read out loud ... Sweetly captures a slice of Indian life."

Kirkus Reviews

"Small moments of stillness, connection, and gratitude are a recipe for happiness in Chaiwala!, a sumptuous debut picture book ... A sensory experience to be savoured."

Quill & Quire
"Beautiful cut-paper collage illustrations swirl and twirl like the steam from a cup of chai, adding crisp and colorful details ... The recipe is here integrated into the story itself."

Booklist

"The simple joy of indulging in a delicious treat is captured exquisitely ... Provides a jubilant, affirming mirror for children who already know the comforting warmth of a cup of chai, and a welcoming window for those who haven’t yet had the pleasure. A wonderful choice for story time and a first purchase for all collections."

School Library Journal - STARRED REVIEW

Buy Chaiwala! here:

More Chaiwala! Book Reviews:

“A delightful story about food and culture! Filled with beautiful artwork and a sensory story telling way that just makes me want to drink a cup of chai!”

— Ashley Dang

“The sights, sounds, smells, and tastes are all described in poetic prose. Much like the chai, this book is a delight to be savored.”

— Christina

“Southeast Asian children will definitely identify with this book. It's great for teaching diversity and appreciation of all cultures.”

— Israa