Masala Chai, Fast and Slow

In this heartwarming story, Newbery Honoree Rajani LaRocca explores the beautiful bond between a young, energetic grandson, Aarav, and his patient grandfather, Thatha. Aarav is always in a hurry, a stark contrast to Thatha's deliberate pace, particularly when he prepares their cherished daily masala chai. When Thatha is temporarily sidelined by a sprained ankle, Aarav eagerly steps up to make the tea, only to find that rushing leads to a less-than-perfect brew. Through his attempts, Aarav learns the importance of patience, care, and honoring tradition. The book beautifully illustrates intergenerational wisdom, cultural heritage, and the joy of shared family rituals, culminating in a real masala chai recipe for families to try together. Ideal for ages 4-11, it's a gentle read-aloud that sparks conversations about slowing down and appreciating the process.

Newbery Honoree Rajani LaRocca, author of I’ll Go and Come Back, turns her focus to a careful, deliberate grandfather and his impatient grandson in a cozy family story featuring a recipe for spiced chai. Aarav loves his grandfather very much, but they’re as different as water and molasses. Where Aarav runs and races, Thatha likes to saunter and stroll. Every day at five o’clock, Thatha makes masala chai for the family, and no matter how much Aarav urges him to hurry, Thatha insists on taking his time. “Masala chai cannot be rushed,” says Thatha. “It must be made carefully.” One day, when Thatha sprains his ankle and must rest on the couch, Aarav eagerly decides he’d like to make the chai himself—after all, what would make his grandfather feel better than a cup of warm, spiced sweetness? But no matter how hard Aarav tries, his rushing causes him to miss some crucial step. Will Aarav be able to slow down and get the recipe right? With charming illustrations by Neha Rawat that are as enticing as the aroma of spiced tea, author Rajani LaRocca invites readers in for a visit with Aarav and his family—and shares her favorite masala chai recipe at the end.