Music of the Mountains: A Story in Pakistan

Set in a contemporary Pashtun village in rural Pakistan, Roohi: Playing the Rabab is a moving and beautifully illustrated story about courage, connection, and cultural pride. Roohi loves listening to her grandfather play the rabab—a traditional stringed instrument of the Pashtun people. Inspired by his powerful melodies, she longs to master the rhythms of her ancestors. But when it’s her turn to perform at her school’s Eid concert, and Neeka Baba is too ill to guide her, Roohi must summon the strength to play from the heart. With themes of perseverance and intergenerational love, this touching tale shows how tradition and music can empower the next generation.

End notes provide enriching cultural context, including information about the rabab, Pashtun music, and Eid celebrations, making this book a meaningful choice for classrooms and family reading alike.

Who Made It:
Barefoot Books is an independent children’s book publisher dedicated to creating beautifully illustrated books, puzzles, and games that celebrate diversity, spark imagination, and encourage global awareness. Since 1992, they’ve partnered with storytellers and illustrators around the world to create thoughtful, inclusive content that empowers children and supports lifelong learning. Their commitment to sustainability and education shines through in every product, inspiring young readers to connect with the world around them.

Size: 8.5 x 10.75 inches
Material: Paper sourced from sustainably managed forests; printed with vegetable-based inks