Amu Nowruz and His Violets written by Hadi Mohammadi, translated by Sara Khalili, and illustrated by Nooshin Safakhoo. Published by Elsewhere Editions*.
Picture books and tales such as Amu Nowruz and His Violets ask to be read aloud. The exquisite storytelling translates into an equally inviting voice, no matter to whom it belongs.
From my first reading and subsequential readings (and aloud) of this picture book translated from Persian by Sara Khalili, so many lines offered me pause. The detailed beauty of the imagery along with the skillful repetitions and alliteration in this lyrical text are remarkable. Taking time to sit with them adds to the richness of the narrative. They provoke together such a sense of calm, I could imagine a child sleepily in bed listening to this story as preparation for a peaceful night’s sleep and the dreams that could follow. And how could anyone not, with lines like:
"Far away, in the distant land of spring, in the lushest meadow of tulips, narcissus, and hyacinths, in every shade of every color, in a cottage with floors of blooms and walls of blossoms..."
As the characters float from scene to scene, the page turns urge the reader on but not without first lingering on each page, to experience the scenery, the sensorial evocations, and connect with each character – Naneh Sarma in Winter and Amu Nowruz in Spring. The wordless images do no less to encompass the reader.
Safakhoo's fine linework and color palette in shades of nature accentuate the experience of this tale creating a world very much alive and emotional. Readers will feel the hope and love that passes between each season.
A tale based on Persian folklore and specifically its New Year, all readers can appreciate the delicate moment that borders winter and spring, its anticipation and beauty.
Imagine It!
The main characters in Amu Nowruz and His Violets each represent a season: Naneh Sarma is Winter and Amu Nowruz is Spring.
Imagine characters for other seasons of the year. What would you name them?
Imagine the tasks that they would perform during their seasons. What would they be?
Imagine two of the seasons meeting. What would their relationship be like? What would they share between each other? Would they meet, speak, or communicate with gifts from nature?
Create a scene in words, images, and/or by acting it out that shows the seasonal characters you’ve created.
Imagine sharing your tale each year at the change of seasons.
*Appreciation is extended to the publisher for providing a review copy. All hard copies of books for review are donated to Bright Blessings.
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