“We had the privilege of having Jyoti Gopal come read her new book, American Desi, to three second grade classes at Village Community School. Wow, what an incredible experience! She shared her own story, inspiration behind her book, and upbringing through photos, videos, dance, and even a sensory board activity where students were able to feel different Indian and American fabric as it relates to the illustrations in her book. Her visit fell on Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and it was so well tied to our literacy curriculum. Her collaboration and presentation was glowing and spectacular! Thank you, Jyoti! “
Da In Hastings, 2nd grade teacher, Village Community School, Manhattan, NY “Jyoti Gopal did a Zoom call with our 1st and 2nd grade classes in Mumbai to read and discuss her first brilliant picture book, “American Desi”. She was an excellent virtual author who kept our students entertained and engaged throughout the 30-minute call. She did an enthusiastic read aloud and gave interesting background to why she had written “American Desi” and the importance of the themes of the book. As a former teacher, Jyoti knows exactly how to interact with the students, answer their many varied questions and pose thought provoking questions to them too. I would highly recommend Jyoti as a visiting author and excitedly look forward to hosting her again soon.” Sarah Pickles, iCommons Media Specialist, American School of Bombay, Mumbai, India. “Thank you so much for sharing your wonderful story with us. It was a delight to feast on those great pictures and enjoy those words which make up this glorious book. I absolutely loved the way you explained this sense of identity and pride to our young learners. I am sure this will lead to many different questions and understandings. I appreciate your patience to answer each of our student's questions and comments about the writing process too.” Sushweta Saha, Librarian, International School of Hyderabad, Hyderabad, India |
“As a seasoned educator, Jyoti Gopal has the ability to connect with young readers and captivate her audience. The Riverdale students were delighted with Ms. Gopal’s presentation of her latest book, My Paati’s Saris. Through her animated and expressive reading, she draws her audience into the pages, where she vividly presents the characters, interspersing stories of her childhood and the feelings behind them. Her reading was punctuated by a wonderful demonstration of sari folding and fitting. We will definitely be inviting her back to share her next book with us!"
Shelia McCorry, Lower School Library Media Specialist, Riverdale Country School, Bronx, NY “We are afterglowing after your visit to our Richmond Early Learning Center! The kiddos’ engagement in the saris and your story, and loving the shopping scenes and the cat! And seeing the genuine joy in the faces of the kiddos who tried on the saris!” Adriana Alba, Children’s Aid Society, Staten Island, NY “Jyoti Gopal made magic at our school! She read her book, My Paati’s Sari, and warmly explained the inspiration for her text. Not only did she touch all the children who could relate to the content but also swept in all who wished their Grandmas wore this special attire. Jyoti held the attention of nearly 80 young children as she read, explained the text, and then demonstrated how to wear a sari. The children gave Jyoti their undivided attention and were delighted when they all got to handle the sari fabric. Her visit gave so much dimension to the children’s experience of this rich book.” Lorraine Mahony, Pre-K Teacher, Riverdale Country School, Bronx, NY |