Anisa's International Day by Reem Faruqi (ARC Review)

 

Synopsis:

From the award-winning author of Unsettled, meet Anisa, the adorable Pakistani American heroine of this irresistible younger middle grade novel about a girl who introduces her class to the art of mehndi for International Day. Filled with fun black-and-white interior art, recipes, and activities in the back matter and perfect for fans of Meet Yasmin!

Genuine, sweet, and relatable. Anisa problems solves her way out of more than one sticky situation with sometimes unexpected--and joyful--results. --Maleeha Siddiqui, author of Barakah Beats

Anisa is super-excited about International Day and can't wait to share her mother's samosas with her class. But when someone else has the exact same idea, Anisa is crushed.

Going to her aunt's dholki party gives her an idea for the perfect activity instead--mehndi! There's only one problem: Anisa's best friend doesn't seem to like the idea. She doesn't even seem to like Anisa anymore.

Will Anisa ever get to enjoy International Day?

My Thoughts:

Every school needs International Day! Anisa is excited about International Day, but she doesn't know what she should bring. She wanted to bring samosas, but overhears another classmate volunteering to bring samosas, and of course, Anisa doesn't want to look like she's copying. She's an artist, and being original is a very important part of her identity.

After getting mehndi done at a party for her aunt, Anisa is excited to show everyone her hands at school. But it looks like her best friend is making fun of her mehndi!

I thought this was an engaging read, and perfect for a younger audience. Anisa and Katie's misunderstanding was nicely resolved, and Anisa's apology is a lovely solution. I also loved both their teacher, Miss Torres and Anisa's mom. They were well-rounded, quirky characters.

The recipes and activities at the end of the book was also a nice touch.

Thank you to Edelweiss and Harper Collins for an ARC. Look for copies of Anisa's International Day at bookstores on September 20, 2022.