Why Is My Skin Brown?

Why Is My Skin Brown? by Lakshmi Iyer is a chapter book about Sarayu, a brown girl who moves to India for a few months and begins to think more deeply about her skin colour, family and sense of belonging. Surrounded by relatives, neighbours and classmates in Bengaluru, Sarayu encounters questions and comments about her appearance that make her reconsider what she has always taken for granted. The story explores identity, family, cultural belonging and growing up between two worlds.

As Sarayu adjusts to her new surroundings, she tries to understand why people place so much importance on skin colour and why certain words and comments affect her so deeply. Her new classes, conversations with her father across time zones and the support of her Bengaluru family help her find people she can trust. Gradually, she develops the confidence to ask difficult questions and understand more about herself.

About This Book

Sarayu's experience brings together the everyday realities of moving between cultures and the more personal process of forming an understanding of identity. Her relationships with her cousins, aunties, neighbours and grandmother shape the questions she asks about family, appearance and belonging.

The story also examines the emotional impact of comments about skin colour through Sarayu's perspective. As she navigates life in India and maintains her connection with her father, she begins to recognise the importance of asking questions, finding supportive people and accepting the qualities that make her who she is.

What You'll Discover

• Sarayu's experience of moving to India for several months
• Questions about skin colour and how others respond to appearance
• The experience of growing up between two different cultures
• Sarayu's relationships with her Bengaluru family and father
• Questions of identity, family and cultural belonging
• The courage to ask difficult questions and understand oneself

Perfect For

• Readers interested in stories about identity and belonging
• Readers exploring experiences of growing up between cultures
• Readers interested in family and cultural relationships
• Readers who enjoy thoughtful chapter books about growing up

Why You'll Love This Book

Why Is My Skin Brown? offers a thoughtful story about identity, family and belonging through Sarayu's experience of living between cultures. Lakshmi Iyer explores questions surrounding skin colour and self-understanding while following a young girl as she finds trust, confidence and a stronger sense of herself.