Nadine Jolie Courtney

Read for a conference; 3.5 stars for being too long.

I recognize that this book can be dumb and I am an anti-monarchist HOWEVER this is my feel good book. I read this and I feel good. I will not explain any further.

RGG: The authentic representation of the main character's struggles of identity as a bi-racial, muslim teenager is a joy to read. The boyfriend's father's character as a radio shock-jock may not have been necessary since all the other plot points of racism both subtle and explicit seem compelling enough. Reading Interest: 12-YA.

There's a lot going on in this story. Allie is Muslim but her family doesn't practice. She has "passed" as white for her whole life, but watched her father and other Muslims be mistreated and feared. When Allie decides to explore and even embrace the religion and culture that her family has kept private, it stirs up family attitudes as well as puts pressure on the relationships she has at school. Thought provoking.