Mixed Rice Book Launch with Sophie Dipti Sarkar at 12Gates!

Celebrate the official launch of Mixed Rice at Twelve Gates Arts in Philly on Saturday, November 23rd, 2024 from 12 - 2 PM! Join local author and illustrator Sophie Dipti Sarkar for a heartfelt afternoon featuring a book reading, talk, signing, and a mindful rice-eating meditation inspired by the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Bring your favorite rice dish to share, if you’d like! This family-friendly gathering is open to all ages—kids, parents, grandparents, and friends are warmly welcomed.

is a children's picture book that delves into the dynamics of a multiethnic Asian family and their daily debate over which type of rice to cook for dinner. As the main character, Joya, grapples with choosing between gohan and basmati rice, her parents’ divergent preferences spark a heated debate, revealing their deeper longings for connection and home. The story captures the complexity and richness of multicultural family life, and offers practical insights into mindful communication and conflict resolution, inspired by the teachings of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh.

Sophie Dipti Sarkar (she/her) is a Bengali and Japanese American artist and facilitator rooted in the Engaged Buddhist tradition of Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh. Inspired by her ancestors, passion for social change, and celestial wonder, Sarkar creates paintings, children’s books, art and climate curriculums, playground billboards, origami mobiles, solidarity workshops, spiritual songs, and more. Recognized by the Leeway Foundation’s 2022 Transformation Award, Sophie's art has been featured at venues like SOMArts San Francisco and Philadelphia’s Asian Arts Initiative. Her guiding aspiration is to offer creative and spiritual support to social movements working to deepen racial solidarity and sustain life on Earth. She is both the author and illustrator of .

Host or Publisher Twelve Gates Arts