Sona Sharma, a Friend Indeed

Sona decides to run for class leader! But her friend Joy is running too. Does Sona really want to lead, or just to win? Chitra Soundar shines a light on democracy in the latest book in this charming series.

Sona’s class is excited when Miss Rao announces that there will be an election for class leader. But when Pradeep, who is always boasting, says he would be the best choice, Sona knows she doesn’t want him to win. So Sona stands up and volunteers to be a candidate too! Strangely, her best friends, Joy and Renu, don’t seem happy about it—in fact, they stop talking to Sona altogether. When it turns out that Joy also wants to run for class leader, Sona doesn’t know what to do. It’s true that Joy has some great ideas for the class, and Sona hasn’t thought much beyond stopping Pradeep from winning, but Sona entered the race first and doesn’t want to drop out. With advice and support from her family, Sona realizes that no one can become a leader on their own. Readers can explore election terms and ideas along with Sona, as well as a glossary of Indian words (like bonda, a delicious South Indian doughnut) at the back.

Chitra Soundar grew up in Chennai, India, in a multigenerational family that was filled with small fights, big laughter, and lots of stories. The award-winning author of more than forty books for children, she loves writing picture books, fiction, nonfiction, and verse. Chitra Soundar travels the world visiting schools and appearing at festivals to bring Indian stories to children everywhere. She lives in London.

Jen Khatun's work is inspired by the natural world, the books on her shelves, and the hidden magical moments found in everyday life. She says, “Being of Bangladeshi heritage meant that Chitra's stories remind me of the close bonds, traditions, and memories of my family life. As a grown-up, I cherish every profound life-teaching my family gifted me; they have made me who I am today.” Jen Khatun lives in England.