Giving Thanks
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About the Book
This book is a poem about giving thanks. It teaches children that there are always simple joys in life to be grateful for and that, by expressing appreciation for family, friends, nature, and the world around us, we can raise our spirits and infuse positivity into our lives. The poem is intended to be an ecumenical prayer for all children, irrespective of race, ethnicity, religion, lifestyle, or background. Proceeds from the sale of this book will go toward Memphis-Mumbai Connect preschools, which benefit the underserved population in impoverished neighborhoods in Mumbai, India; Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee; and other children’s charities in Memphis.
About the Author
Shaila Karkera was born in Mumbai, India. She has a master’s degree in biochemistry and was a chemistry professor at the University of Mumbai before moving to Memphis, Tennessee, where she has lived with her husband, Mohan, and raised their two daughters. Shaila has a special interest in education and is involved with several nonprofit groups that serve women and children in Memphis. She has served as a director on the board of several organizations, including St. Mary’s Episcopal School, the Women’s Foundation for a Greater Memphis, Memphis in May International Festival, BRIDGES, and the National Civil Rights Museum. She cofounded the Indian Community Fund for Greater Memphis, which financed the installation of several educational and historical exhibits at the National Civil Rights Museum, the Children’s Museum of Memphis, and the Memphis Botanic Garden. Partnering with Desh Seva Samiti and several other nonprofits, Shaila launched six preschools called Memphis-Mumbai Connect Schools in Mumbai to serve impoverished urban neighborhoods. At the time of this book’s publication, the schools serve 344 three- to six-year-olds. The proceeds of this book will go to support the Memphis-Mumbai Connect Schools, Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital, and other children’s charities. Shaila loves to write, and this is her first children’s book.