Mustafa’s Mithai: A Celebration Of Dessert, Friendship, And Life’s Sweetest Things
Mustafa’s Mithai
By Sana Rafi, illustrated by Nabi H. Ali
Penguin Young Readers is set to release Mustafa’s Mithai, a heartwarming picture book by Sana Rafi and illustrated by Nabi H. Ali, that explores the sweetness of South Asian desserts and the joy of spending time with loved ones. The book, slated for publication on June 17, is a vibrant celebration of food, culture, and family—perfect for young readers who are drawn to stories about food and tradition, alongside titles like Fry Bread, Thank You, Omu, and Soul Food Sunday.
In Mustafa’s Mithai, readers meet Mustafa, a boy who loves celebrating special occasions, but most of all, he loves mithai—South Asian sweets such as barfi, halwa, and ladu. After his Baba’s birthday and a visit from his Nani and Nanu, Mustafa feels that the celebrations are over. But when Ammi reminds him that mithai is sweetest when shared and that even an ordinary day can be a reason to celebrate, Mustafa takes matters into his own hands. He organizes a playdate, sharing his love of mithai by finding the perfect sweet for each of his friends and, of course, for his Ammi too.
The book’s illustrations are as vibrant as the cultural traditions it celebrates, beautifully capturing the joy and connection that comes from sharing food with those you love. Mustafa’s Mithai not only teaches young readers the importance of finding joy in everyday moments but also introduces them to the cultural significance of mithai, with an insightful author’s note explaining its historical roots in South Asia.
Sana Rafi is a California-based author with an MFA from Columbia University. She is dedicated to highlighting Muslim and immigrant experiences in her writing.
Illustrator Nabi H. Ali, a Tamil American, brings a wide range of cultures to life through his artwork. His interests extend beyond art, including doll collecting, reading, South Asian mythology, and historical research.
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