Jyoti Rajan Gopal – författare

Dawn breaksnew dayhearts lightsisters play.In this warm picture book, Jyoti Rajan Gopal tells the story of two sisters who are excited to go on a backyard adventure. Their make-believe ends in disaster, however, when they disagree and end up smashing up their mud pies and fairy dens. After some time apart, they begin to realize that they were both wrong. With newfound excitement, the sisters combine their ideas to make the most beautiful backyard kingdom of all. Because now they know:sister spiritsister strongsister heartsister strong.

Little Fox peeks out from her den.Biting cold nips her nose.Yip, yip, she calls,as Mama Fox surveys the land.Little Fox wriggles in delight.She is ready to explore.When Little Fox awakens one cold arctic morning, she is ready to explore the sights and sounds of the arctic with Mama Fox. Little Fox loves the click click click of the reindeer herd and the groooooar of the walrus. But new creatures are following her and Mama on their trek through the frozen tundra. As the storm rolls in, will these new creatures prove to be unexpected friends?This beautifully illustrated picture book will delight young readers and parents alike. In addition to the atmospheric text, this book also includes extensive backmatter that discusses the science of the Arctic Tundra, information about climate issues, and tips for how readers can help.

In an ode to the power of music and community, this vibrantly illustrated picture book steps out on the balcony for a shared moment of spontaneous joy and celebration.In a quiet neighborhood, a single note trills through the air. Another note joins, and then another. One by one, curious people are drawn to their windows, doorways, and balconies to support the medley. Professional musicians play instruments from around the world, while others bang pots and pans. All are welcome as the notes swirl and dip and crescendo, coming together to make one sweet song. And when the music fades, and this diverse neighbourhood is once again silent, the reverberations of unity remain. Written by a kindergarten teacher and inspired by the balcony singing in Italy during the pandemic – with a countdown from one to ten and back gently woven in – this rhythmic synergy of text and art is a buoyant, global-minded celebration of how music connects us, even in the darkest of times.

STONEWALL BOOK AWARD HONORBEST OF THE YEARBooklist - BookPage - Kirkus - BCCBIn a kaleidoscope of desert sands and swirling skirts, Queen Harish takes flight. This picture book biography, spun in vibrant verse by Jyoti Gopal, traces the journey of a beloved Rajasthani drag performer who defied tradition and dazzled the world.Fueled by an inner fire, young Harish yearns to join the captivating desert dancers, their music pulsing through his veins. But societal constraints paint a narrow path, one that clashes with his vibrant spirit. Through lyrical stanzas and Svabhu Kohli's evocative art, Harish's story unfolds, a tapestry woven with resilience and the transformative power of dance.From village gatherings to Bollywood stages, Queen Harish twirls her way into hearts, leaving a trail of shattered stereotypes and empowering others to embrace their true selves. This is a celebration of courage, finding your inner queen, and dancing to your own rhythm.6 STARRED REVIEWS★ With art as shiny and glittery as the goddess herself, this picture book is nothing short of brilliant. An essential purchase.-School Library Journal (starred)★ "Both a celebration of art and a manifesto for living on one's own terms. . . Kohli's vibrant, kaleidoscope-like illustrations duet in harmony with Rajan Gopal's lyrical, rhythmic language."-Publishers Weekly(starred)★ "This one-of-a-kind picture book paints a stirringly intimate and reverential portrait of the late drag performer known as Queen Harish, the Whirling Desert Queen of Rajasthan. . . As gorgeous and indefinable as Queen Harish herself, this book belongs on every shelf."-Booklist (starred)★ "A fearlessly triumphant depiction of the wonder, magic and sparkle of dance."-BookPage (starred)★ "Celebratory. . . striking."-Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (starred)★ "Vibrant, kaleidoscopic illustrations inspired by the desert environs and the textiles, architecture, and artwork of the city of Jaisalmer capture the joyful dancer's whirling and swirling movements. . . Lyrical poetry mirrors the sounds and beats of the local folk music and complements the dreamlike visuals. Evocative and electrifying."-Kirkus Reviews (starred)"A love letter to gender fluidity, accompanied by stunning art full of vibrancy and warmth."-Betsy Bird,Fuse8