Synopsis
A Pakistani-American girl takes part in her aunt's traditional Pakistani wedding.
Children's Literature
Nadia is to be the flower girl at Auntie Laila's wedding. The downside is that in the tradition of her Pakistani family, she must have her hands decorated with 'mehndi,' or henna designs. As she gives in reluctantly, Nadia learns 'sabr,' or patience, and comes to terms with her heritage. This is an interesting premise - one that rings true for many children of immigrant communities, seeking to find a place and identity. Unfortunately, the telling is a trifle heavy-handed in places, and the denouement feels a bit flat, focused as it is on realization and no more. Weiner's oil pastels depict the glowing colors and delicate tracery of mehndi, and should intrigue the young reader.