A Nowruz story for children ages 4-9, in English, Persian, and transliterated Persian - so parents who speak Persian but don't read the script can read it aloud too.
Join eight-year-old Kian as he celebrates Chaharshanbe Suri, the vibrant fire festival that leads up to Nowruz, the Persian New Year.
At Kian's house, it's a night of jumping over fire, dancing to lively Bandari music, and savoring delicious Ghormeh Sabzi. But this year, the day before the celebration has been anything but fun. Kian didn't make the basketball team, argued with his best friend, and lost his favorite water bottle. Again.
As the festivities begin, Kian's spirits are low - until a conversation with his Maman helps him rediscover what Chaharshanbe Suri is really about: letting go of your worries and starting fresh. With every jump over the fire, Kian feels lighter, braver, and ready for whatever comes next.
Three ways to read it:
English - for children growing up far from IranPersian script - for readers and heritage-language learnersTransliterated Persian - sound out the Persian words even if you don't read the alphabetPerfect for:
Persian and Iranian-American families celebrating NowruzParents and grandparents who speak Persian but don't read itPersian heritage schools and classroomsChildren ages 4-9 having a hard week and needing a fresh startA Nowruz or Chaharshanbe Suri giftWill you jump over the fire with Kian?