Vaisakhi to Remember

Simran Jeet Singh is a writer and professor. He teaches about different cultures and religions, and he is the author of multiple books, including A Vaisakhi to Remember, illustrated by Japneet Kaur, awarded by the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA) as a Picture Book Honor.  He is also the author of the award-winning picture book Fauja Singh Keeps Going (Kokila, 2020), which was named a Best Book of 2020 by National Public Radio and the New York Public Library, and has been featured on numerous outlets, including CNN, BBC, Runner's World, and TODAY.com. Simran grew up in Texas and now lives with his family in New York City.Japneet Kaur graduated with a fine arts degree from the Chandigarh College of Art. She currently lives and works in Toronto, Canada as a painter, illustrator, potter and animator. Her picture book illustration debut, A Vaisakhi to Remember, written by Simran Jeet Singh, was awarded by the Asian Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA) as a Picture Book Honor. Her work is inspired by narratives, some real, some fantastical; small tales that weave through the natural and human world, in a continuous vocabulary based on the themes of homes, habitats, ecosystems, migrations, immigration and representation. Follow her on Instagram and Twitter/X @storyofaseed.

Praise for A Vaisakhi to Remember by Simran Jeet Singh; Illustrated by Japneet Kaur:An ALSC 2026 Notable Children’s Book (Younger Readers category)A 2026 APALA Asian American Picture Book Honor"Kaur’s dense, jewel-like watercolor illustrations expand moments beyond Jeet Singh’s bustling text, leaning into group scenes and linking celebrations." —Publishers Weekly"A heartfelt story of home, tradition, and continuity." —Booklist“This tender story encapsulates the conflicting emotions that often accompany a move. An empathetic tale that speaks to the complex feelings inherent to undergoing big change.” —Kirkus Reviews"A beautiful picture book about a family’s honoring the evolution of traditions." —The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books“Beautiful watercolor illustrations present a tapestry of village life in a kaleidoscope of rich colors and patterns in this joyful story of celebrating Sikh culture and carrying on traditions.” — The Horn Book