Neel loves listening to Chachaji's stories over steaming cups of tea. Chachaji's tales of great Hindu gods and demons, and of his adventures in the Indian Army leave Neel openmouthed. But it is the tale of his great-uncle's favorite teacup that teaches Neel the most, for Chachaji's cup holds far more than sweet, spicy masala chai. It holds the story of a family and a country split in two, during the 1947 partition of India and Pakistan. When the precious cup and Chachaji's health both prove to be more fragile than they look, Neel knows what he must do.
Uma Krishnaswami weaves a gentle tale of family love and the power of memory, which Soumya Sitaraman brings to vivid life in her richly hued paintings. Chachaji's Cup will captivate and comfort readers of all ages, long after the last sip.
Uma Krishnaswami grew up in India. She is an award-winning author of several books for children as well as a book for teachers. Her short stories and poems have been featured in multi-author anthologies and in magazines for children. Uma lives with her husband and son in northwestern New Mexico.
Soumya Sitaraman developed her unique style in California, and works primarily in oil paint, mixed media, and installations. Her work reflects elements of Shivite artistry and nature. She lives and works in Bangalore, India.
• 2004 Paterson Prize for Books for Young People
• 2004 Skipping Stones Honor Award in the Multicultural and International Books category
• Bank Street College's "Best Children's Books of the Year"
"Krishnaswami's storytelling is so vivid, you can almost smell the flavors of cloves and nutmeg in Chachaji's masala chai. The rich colors of Sitaraman's illustrations are sure to stir a young reader's imagination about the many scenes, mythological and historical, from Chachaji's tales." — India Currents
“This is a beautifully written and illustrated story about the universal relationship between an elder and a young child. Through this relationship, Chachaji passes on his culture and history. Sitaraman’s vibrant acrylic paintings work well with Krishnaswami’s text." — Multi-Cultural Review
“This is not only a touching story about relationships. More importantly, it's about teaching a young person about history... " — Albuquerque Journal
