A review by adamskiboy528491
Asha & the Spirit Bird by Jasbinder Bilan

3.0

[b:Asha & the Spirit Bird|41710162|Asha & the Spirit Bird|Jasbinder Bilan|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1543401989l/41710162._SX50_.jpg|65054109] by [a:Jasbinder Bilan|18386515|Jasbinder Bilan|https://s.gr-assets.com/assets/nophoto/user/u_50x66-632230dc9882b4352d753eedf9396530.png] will make you want to visit rural India. Each chapter headings also has one of the figures from the cover in black & white illustration, which helps set the mood for the beautifully descriptive writing.

From the foothills of the Himalayas to Zandapur, Asha takes a spellbinding journey searching for her father. With the help of her best friend, Jeevan, & watched over by the spirit bird of her grandmother, Asha's journey will test her resolve at every stage.

It's no wonder that this remarkable debut won both the Costa prize for children's books and the Waterstones children's book prize. The author paints a rich and detailed picture of life in a village in the foothills of the Himalayas, describing the landscape, the flowers, the trees, birds, scenery - even evoking the smell & taste of delicious-sounding food. I would recommend this book for anyone who loves adventures, is interested in India, & is intrigued by other cultures.