Sona Sharma, Very Best Big Sister

Being a big sister to a new baby brings big responsibilities.

Sona Sharma's house is full of people who joke often and argue sometimes. Relatives come unannounced, the phone rings frequently and friends drop in all the time. Then one day Amma tells Sona she is going to have a baby. Is that good? Sona isn't sure – she has always enjoyed being an only child – and straight away she has a word with her best friend, Elephant. When Sona learns that there will be a baby naming ceremony, she is determined to find the perfect name for her new brother or sister. Because although she realizes that her life is about to change, and while she's having some difficulty in coming to terms with having to share everything with the new baby – including Amma and Appa, her grandparents and her home – Sona Sharma wants to be the very best big sister she can be.

About the Author

Chitra Soundar grew up in Chennai, India, in a joint family that was filled with small fights, big laughter and lots of stories. An award-winning author of more than 40 books for children, she loves writing picture books, fiction, non-fiction and verse. Chitra travels the world visiting schools and appearing at festivals to bring Indian stories to children everywhere. Find out more at www.chitrasoundar.com

About the Illustrator

Jen Khatun's work is inspired by the natural world, the books on her shelves and the hidden magical moments found in everyday life. She says, "Being of Bangladeshi heritage meant that Chitra's story reminded me of the close bonds, traditions and memories of my family life. As a grown up, I cherish every profound life-teaching my family gifted me; they have made me who I am today."