- an Iranian boy learns from his grandmother their beautiful cultural tradition of rug making
- emphasis on the impossibility of perfection, a refocus on making beauty from chaos, and realizing everything has a purpose
- beautiful illustrations
- neat extra information about rug making in the back
Type: picture book
Ages: 4-8
Author: Daniel Nayeri
Illustrator: Vesper Stamper
One element of a well-written children’s story is its ability to powerfully communicate with so few words. We of non-Iranian backgrounds are sweetly welcomed into a tradition over 2,500 years old as we witness the the wise grandmother patiently teaching the boy. Our worlds are widened as we learn–probably for the first time–the importance of rugs in their culture and all the unique steps in making one.
The grandfather is part of the story as well (I love the multi-generational aspect). He is a shepherd, and the wool for their new rug comes from his sheep. He sometimes joins in the conversations and is as loving as his wife.
If you’re looking to learn about Iran or various forms of art, definitely check out this book. It actually had me internet-searching a few things and learning more myself!
I’ll leave you with the first line of the book as a lovely conclusion to this review:
Here’s something to remember: Even a rug can be a precious thing.
Happy reading!