Nani's Holiday

If you didn't make the acquaintance of Jazeera and her family in Jazeera's Journey, then you really should take the opportunity in this sequel, wherein Nani comes from India to visit Jazeera, Omar and new baby, Azra (who was born in a fish tank, Omar tells her). This is a marvellously warm and moving tale, portraying the loving relationship which so often exists between the very old (we share Nani's 75th birthday celebrations) and the very young. The manner of telling is particularly interesting. It features Nani's letters home to her friend, Mrs Khan, telling of her impressions of England and describing her adventures during her six-month stay, as well as the entries Jazeera makes in her new leather-bound diary (a present from Nani). A real treat this: either for independent readers or for sharing with six to nines.