The Divining Thread
THE STORY BEHIND THE STORY
MY THOUGHTS
When I picked up this book, I did not expect to be reading about a spunky heroine who stands up against the world in order to do what her heart desires. The cover of the book has a woman in a ghagra and a figure in a turban next to her. I imagined a traditional story and was not prepared for what I was about to read.
The Divining Thread is about Zarene, who is set to marry the prince of Shandrabad. She is decked in finery, and as her palanquin goes to the venue, she asks them to stop when she chances upon a young girl wearing the most exquisite ghagra. She is intrigued by the girl’s attire and wants it for herself, and will not take no for an answer. The exchange with the girl sets the stage for the entire book. Her obsession with owning the ghagra and finding out who created it, costs her the prince. Despite taunts from society and her own family, she decides not to give up on her obsession and instead chooses a dangerous path that may take her closer to finding out who made the skirt. The intricate work and embroidery are not the only things about the skirt that catch her attention. She realises the folds tell a story and that the ghagra is designed with pages from her own life. Now, it is adding new images and may just be able to take her to its creator.
This is author Anjum Choudhury’s first novella for children, and it combines her love for fantasy fiction with influences from all the countries she has lived in. She is inspired by folklore and legends from India and the Asian subcontinent, and that is reflected in her book. Her consternation at fairytales always painting princesses in the same light triggered her to write The Divining Thread, and Zarene, the heroine from this book, will stay in your mind for a long time. Zarene is a true badass and will stop at nothing, for she understands what her heart desires, and no prince is going to stand in her way. Zarene meets Keyan, a young drifter, and together they travel to strange lands and piece together the puzzle of the ghagra. This one has intrigue, adventure, fantastical creatures, and a heroine you will remember! This is the modern fairy tale we need for our kids today!
If you think your child would enjoy this book, you can buy it here →
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