Ritu in the Sun

A lyrical picture book about one little girl's experience with colorism--and a celebration of that which can make us see things anew: light and love.

Ritu loves the sun. She loves it in the morning when it slants in through the kitchen window; in the afternoon when it makes the pool sparkle; and in the evening when it lights up the sky with splashes of orange and pink. But her Nani is worried the sun will give Ritu a tan.

Can Ritu convince her that all skin colors are beautiful--including Nani's own?

With poetic text and stunning illustrations, this poignant story is sure to inspire children to embrace their own unique beauty--and it includes the author's grandmother's own aloo bhaji and roti recipes at the back.

Binding Type: Hardcover
Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers
Published: 04/21/2026
ISBN: 9780593806692
Pages: 32
Weight: 1.25lbs

Review Citations: School Library Journal 02/01/2026 pg. 40