Mixed Rice: A Multicultural Tale of Food, Feelings, and Finding Home Together

A simple family meal reveals the power of mindfulness and healthy communication in this colorful children’s book celebrating the diverse cultures that shape our identities

When Joya’s parents disagree on what to eat, she must search high in the sky and deep within to find the glue that holds her multicultural family together

Mixed Rice by Sophie Dipti Sarkar is an enchanting and culturally rich picture book for children ages 4-8 that delves into the heart of a multi-racial Asian family's daily life, centered around a seemingly simple yet profound question: Which rice to cook for dinner? As young Joya grapples with choosing between gohan and basmati rice, her parents' divergent preferences spark a heated debate, revealing deeper longings for connection and belonging. Through the conflict over rice, Sarkar deftly weaves a narrative that is both relatable and educational, making Mixed Rice an ideal read for families seeking to foster understanding and appreciation of cultural diversity.

Beyond its engaging storyline, Mixed Rice serves as a practical guide in mindful communication and conflict resolution inspired by Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings and offers two recipes from Joya's family as well as space to write down your own!

“A delightful and wise story that shows children of all ages how to be compassionate and take skillful action in moments of family conflict.”—Kaira Jewel Lingo, author of We Were Made for These Times and editor of Planting Seeds: Practicing Mindfulness with Children

“An inspiring tale about how everyday conflicts can be resolved by embracing our full, complex selves, emotions, and the wisdom of the ancestors. I loved this book!”—Jaimal Yogis, author of Mop Rides the Waves of Life

Sophie Dipti Sarkar is a Bengali, Japanese, and English American artist deeply rooted in the mindfulness practices of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh's Engaged Buddhist tradition. Her multifaceted artistry, encompassing paintings, mobiles, workshops, and more, reflects her spiritual upbringing amidst a family of scientists with complex histories of empire and displacement. Sarkar intertwines her passion for justice and celestial wonder in her work; she co-founded PGM ONE, one of the largest racial affinity spaces in the environmental movement, and Interwoven, a Black and Asian solidarity series and zine, to foster racial and cultural solidarity. Sarkar’s art, recognized by the Leeway Foundation’s 2022 Transformation Award, has graced venues like SOMArts San Francisco and Philadelphia’s Asian Arts Initiative. Sophie Dipti Sarkar, based in Philadelphia (Lenapehoking), is both the author and illustrator of Mixed Rice.