Chapter 6, Sibi Fair Summary

Soon, Dadi and Shabanu are in Sibi, met by the crowds and colors of the fair. Animals of all sorts are decorated with dyes, tassels, blankets, and mirrors. Vendors sell fodder for the animals and crushed sugarcane for the people. As much as Shabanu wants to go to the carnival and have fun, she knows she must take care of the animals, build a fire, and cook a meal. She asks her father if he was afraid of the Bugtis, and he says he was a bit, but he trusts Allah to keep them safe. He tells her in a pointed way that Allah's will must be kept. Dadi gives Shabanu some money for herself and some to buy fodder for the animals. As she rides Guluband down the street, she knows people are looking at her fine camel...