Overview

Happy Hippotastic Holi!: How to Celebrate with Consent introduces Holi, the Indian Festival of Colors, and gives kids simple language for choice, consent, and joyful participation. It is a full-color, bilingual picture book in English and Hindi for children ages 3-8. In this story, hippos cannot wait to celebrate, but they also know something important: before adding color, you ask first. They model a simple rhythm: Pause. Ask. Play! They ask, ""May I add some color?"" They listen to the answer. If someone says no, they stop. If someone wants to watch from the side, that is welcome too. When consent is ignored, the celebration stops feeling fun. When consent is respected, everyone can celebrate in the way that feels right for them. Culturally-rich with bright Holi colors, playful patterns, dancing, and festive treats, this story helps families navigate celebrations, boundaries, and belonging in diverse communities, with care and respect. Back matter for families and educators includes: What is Holi? Why Does Consent Belong in Holi? A glossary of Hindi words, Two STEAM activities (make your own Holi colors), and a sweet treat recipe (make your own banana pua).

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Reviews

""A fun, colorful Holi story that also teaches kids about boundaries and consent."" - ARC Reader ""Powerful and timely. As a parent and educator, it shifted my perspective toward a more thoughtful, inclusive, and mindful celebration."" - Reshma T., Parent, Educator, ARC Reader ""Consent is woven in with such grace, never preachy, just gentle and deeply respectful. It lands as an extension of kindness, not a rule being taught."" - Sonali P., Children's Book Author, ARC Reader ""So many important concepts about one holiday, and the illustrations bring it all to life."" - ARC Reader

Author Information

Geshu Sugandh is a mom, writer, artist, and children's book author in Hindi and English. Born and raised in Bihar, India, she is a Biharn who calls Brooklyn home, where she lives with her family (her daily inspiration). She has also lived and worked in Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Norway, experiences that shape her global perspective. Alongside picture books, she writes poetry and reflective essays that weave art, memory, language, and culture. Through her storytelling-led publisher, BrooklynBiharn, she invites children of all ages and culture-curious readers to explore words and worlds, and supports joyful Devanagari-led Hindi bilingual journeys. Natasha B. Padhiar is an author, illustrator, maker, and a mom based in New York. With over a decade of experience in early childhood education, she has witnessed firsthand the transformative power of children's literature. Through her work, Natasha creates stories and illustrations rooted in joy, curiosity, and whimsy, all with the hope of uplifting children and families while nurturing social-emotional learning. You can learn more about her work at www.brightandbluestudio.com. Other works include ""Quiet Kush"" and ""Look!""

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