Books to Inspire: March 2025

The Red Tent

By Anita Diamant

Ever wondered what the Bible would be like if it were written by women? Anita Diamant’s “The Red Tent” offers a richly woven reimagining of the biblical story of Dinah, daughter of Leah and Jacob, exploring the transformative journey from girlhood to motherhood. Set in a world where women gather in the red tent during menstruation, childbirth, and other rites of passage, the novel vividly portrays female experiences, relationships, and wisdom passed down through generations.

At its core, “The Red Tent” is a meditation on the evolution of womanhood. Dinah’s journey through girlhood, sexual awakening, childbirth, and motherhood is depicted with honesty, emphasizing both physical and emotional depth. The red tent itself symbolizes sisterhood and shared knowledge, a sacred space where women find solidarity in navigating life's challenges. Diamant’s writing celebrates the strength of these bonds, reclaiming women’s voices in history and offering a powerful exploration of how the journey from girlhood to motherhood is interconnected and life-changing. 

“The Red Tent”, originally published in 1997 by Wyatt Books for St. Martin's Press, is a New York Times Best Seller. A paperback copy can be found in the fiction section of the Neilson Hays Library. 

Big Mama Makes the World

Written by Phyllis Root and illustrated by Helen Oxenbury

Phyllis Root’s “Big Mama Makes the World” is a delightful children's picture book that introduces young readers to the wonders of creation and family. With rhythmic, lyrical prose and charming illustrations, Root celebrates the interconnectedness of all life.

Big Mama, a figure of maternal love and wisdom, creates the world with care and boundless energy. She molds mountains, carves rivers, paints the sky, and breathes life into the creatures of the earth, all with joy and purpose. Her actions reflect the magical simplicity of nurturing life.

The story highlights the deep, interwoven nature of all things, illustrating how mothers, in their quiet yet powerful ways, create and sustain life. It serves as a heartfelt reminder of the profound influence motherhood has on both the world and those within it, offering young readers a meaningful and accessible exploration of creation, love, and the bonds that tie us all. 

Phyllis Root is the author of over forty books. “Big Mama Makes the World” was published in 2003 by Candlewick Press. A copy can be found in the Children’s Corner of the Neilson Hays library.

Prepared by Kit Lang. The Neilson Hays Library is Thailand’s premier English-language library. The Children's Program offers Saturday Story Time, a cozy Children's Corner, and special holiday events. Adult Programs include concerts, art exhibitions, book clubs, and book sales. Located in a UNESCO-awarded historic building with a garden and cafe on site: 195 Surawong Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.