Ajooni the Kaurageous
Author: Amarpreet Kaur Dhami
Illustrator: Annie Wilkinson
Mascot Books
A little girl, Ajooni, is not scared of snakes or spiders or barking dogs or the dark – until she meets a dragon. When she realizes she is scared she thinks she is not the bravest girl in the neighborhood. But her parents help her understand being brave is about facing your fears. Being courageous is about standing up for everything that is right – including yourself. Don’t be scared of anyone and don’t scare anyone.
I loved the character of Ajooni and the message she brings of being brave and standing up to demons in any form – inside and outside of us. The Sikh character is authentic and highlights the rich Sikh culture while also being relatable to people from any background. This book is also extra special because it is made by a mother, who has since passed, for her child to teach her to be courageous like Ajooni. Truly, an immortal gift.