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Any Way You Look
Ainy is excited for summer! She plans on working at her mom's clothing boutique, having adventures with her best friend, and maybe even starting to wear the hijab--just like her big sister. But when certain boys from Ainy's Muslim community keep showing up at the store to give her unwanted attention, she goes from possibly wanting to wear the hijab someday to feeling like she needs to wear it to get the boys to leave her alone.
But wearing the hijab doesn't do what she'd It doesn't deflect the boys' attention at all! If anything, they've found something new to harass her about. With the help of her best friend and her older sister, Ainy must channel her inner creative strength and find the confidence to stand her ground and get the respect she deserves.
This is a compulsively feminist and thought-provoking audiobook about staying true to yourself by acclaimed author Maleeha Siddiqui.
But wearing the hijab doesn't do what she'd It doesn't deflect the boys' attention at all! If anything, they've found something new to harass her about. With the help of her best friend and her older sister, Ainy must channel her inner creative strength and find the confidence to stand her ground and get the respect she deserves.
This is a compulsively feminist and thought-provoking audiobook about staying true to yourself by acclaimed author Maleeha Siddiqui.
Audible Audio
First published May 7, 2024
7 people are currently reading
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About the author
Maleeha Siddiqui
5 books121 followersMaleeha Siddiqui is an American writer of Pakistani descent who loves to tell stories for all ages. Her books include Barakah Beats (Scholastic 2021), Bhai For Now (Scholastic 2022), and Any Way You Look (Scholastic 2024). By day, Maleeha works as a regulatory affairs professional in the biotech industry. She grew up and continues to reside with her family in Virginia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
March 3, 2025
This was such a fun read, but also a powerful one that explored a young girl’s journey with Islam and challenges in her community. I wish books like this existed when I was in school - and how cool to have a main character named Ainy!🤩
March 15, 2024
Plot:
As a child the books I enjoyed most were the ones where the main character dreamt of pursuing fashion design; so I immediately had a soft spot for this book especially since it's the first time it is modest fashion that's in question
Writing: I really really liked the writing, the pacing is great, urdu/arabic words have a little glossary in the end and expressions used in dialogue are seamlessly explained
Muslim rep:
This book deals with difficult themes but manages to handle them very well.
I liked how things unfolded when Ainy decided to wear the hijab to deflect the boys' attention and the emphasis on the fact that hijab is worn for Allah and no one else.
Ainy is a mature and relatable character, I love how she didn't compromise her values for anything, even if she had weak moments, she always ended up standing for herself and doing what's right.
Overall the Muslim representation was good, it felt very natural.
Ending:
I wish we got an epilogue set a few months/years later where I feel like it would have been even more powerful and satisfactory, especially if I was a little girl reading it.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Thank you so much to the publisher for sending me a digital arc via Edelweiss
As a child the books I enjoyed most were the ones where the main character dreamt of pursuing fashion design; so I immediately had a soft spot for this book especially since it's the first time it is modest fashion that's in question
Writing: I really really liked the writing, the pacing is great, urdu/arabic words have a little glossary in the end and expressions used in dialogue are seamlessly explained
Muslim rep:
This book deals with difficult themes but manages to handle them very well.
I liked how things unfolded when Ainy decided to wear the hijab to deflect the boys' attention and the emphasis on the fact that hijab is worn for Allah and no one else.
Ainy is a mature and relatable character, I love how she didn't compromise her values for anything, even if she had weak moments, she always ended up standing for herself and doing what's right.
Overall the Muslim representation was good, it felt very natural.
Ending:
I wish we got an epilogue set a few months/years later where I feel like it would have been even more powerful and satisfactory, especially if I was a little girl reading it.
Rating: 4.5 stars
Thank you so much to the publisher for sending me a digital arc via Edelweiss
June 2, 2024
I love this book!!!!!!! Just like all her books, maleeha siddiqui never fails to satisfy me!!! This book is rlly nice and shows what a lot of ppl feel when they start wearing hijab, and its just a cute read over all!! i dont think i will ever not read her books no matter how old i am!!!!!
May 3, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read an advanced copy of this title.
You'll be cheering for Anni in this story about a young Pakistani American girl who wants to stay true to her Muslim faith. Almost ready, but not quite to begin wearing a hijab, Anni struggles to deal with unwanted attention from Muslim boys at school and around her community. Thinking she can handle it on her own, she finds herself growing distant from her friend Safi and not staying focused at her summer job at her mother's clothing shop. With enough worries of their own, she avoids confiding in her mother or older sister. Can twelve year-old Anni figure out how to keep the boys away, win her best friend back and refocus at work? Can she do it on her own? Who could she confide in?
If you are looking for a Muslim version of Barbara Dee's Maybe He Just Likes You (which the author references in her Author's Note at the end of the book), this is it.
You'll be cheering for Anni in this story about a young Pakistani American girl who wants to stay true to her Muslim faith. Almost ready, but not quite to begin wearing a hijab, Anni struggles to deal with unwanted attention from Muslim boys at school and around her community. Thinking she can handle it on her own, she finds herself growing distant from her friend Safi and not staying focused at her summer job at her mother's clothing shop. With enough worries of their own, she avoids confiding in her mother or older sister. Can twelve year-old Anni figure out how to keep the boys away, win her best friend back and refocus at work? Can she do it on her own? Who could she confide in?
If you are looking for a Muslim version of Barbara Dee's Maybe He Just Likes You (which the author references in her Author's Note at the end of the book), this is it.
October 9, 2025
awww this book was really cute 🥰 loved it so much that i finished it in 2 hours. i know i’m too old for it but i literally do not care. i will be reading maleeha siddiqui’s books til the day i die. i find it hard to write reviews on children’s books but i really loved it (not quite as much as Baraka Beats and Bhai For Now, but still loved it). “boys will be boys” is pathetic and parents need to teach their sons to respect women no matter what. i loved how this book beautifully explained that.
June 23, 2024
Although the cover art made my own eyebrows rise, "Any Way You Look" by Maleeha Siddiqui is a Middle Grade book that truly blew me away.
It's not very long or dense, but this story packs a punch. Ainy is a 12yo aspiring modest fashion designer, hoping to follow in the footsteps of her niqabi mother. Excited for her summer job & secretly dreaming of the perfect day to start wearing hijab herself, Ainy finds herself confronted by some very unexpected attention.
Grappling with gossipy masjid aunties, boys acting weird, & a shocking change in her sister is a lot for Ainy to contend with all at once.
Maleeha Siddiqui's writing is always amazing to read: perfectly age-appropriate, full of Islamic elements seamlessly woven in throughout, & powerfully tackling big themes in a way that is very relevant to the intended young readers. ALSO SHE EXPLICITLY SAYS THAT HIJAB IS AN ACT OF WORSHIP FOR ALLAH! +100000 POINTS!
"Any Way You Look" grapples with issues of hijab, societal pressure vs spirituality, & sexual harassment - so I do recommend that parents read this book first with their kids (yes, both sons & daughters!) to ensure they've laid down the groundwork for understanding these topics in a holistic Islamic way.
It's also necessary for us as adults to remember that yes, our 10-13yo kids ARE aware of these issues, & experiencing it themselves. If you'd rather live with your head buried in the sand, don't be mad at this book for talking about these things; be mad at yourself for failing in your kids' tarbiya to begin with.
And yes... I really am not thrilled with the cover art - specifically the girl on the left - because as much as I appreciate discussions on hijab-related pressures... it IS important to maintain emphasis on what is actually Islamically acceptable hijab to begin with. Those tights-under-a-short-skirt look ain't it. (#irony)
This is truly such a fantastic book, so brilliantly written, and 100% worth purchasing immediately.
4.9/5 🌟
#Bookstagram #Muslimbookstagram #bookreview #ownvoices #weneeddiversebooks #diversereads #MuslimMG #Muslimfiction #MyMuslimShelfSpace #Muslimrepresentation #authenticrepresentation #middlegradefiction #books
It's not very long or dense, but this story packs a punch. Ainy is a 12yo aspiring modest fashion designer, hoping to follow in the footsteps of her niqabi mother. Excited for her summer job & secretly dreaming of the perfect day to start wearing hijab herself, Ainy finds herself confronted by some very unexpected attention.
Grappling with gossipy masjid aunties, boys acting weird, & a shocking change in her sister is a lot for Ainy to contend with all at once.
Maleeha Siddiqui's writing is always amazing to read: perfectly age-appropriate, full of Islamic elements seamlessly woven in throughout, & powerfully tackling big themes in a way that is very relevant to the intended young readers. ALSO SHE EXPLICITLY SAYS THAT HIJAB IS AN ACT OF WORSHIP FOR ALLAH! +100000 POINTS!
"Any Way You Look" grapples with issues of hijab, societal pressure vs spirituality, & sexual harassment - so I do recommend that parents read this book first with their kids (yes, both sons & daughters!) to ensure they've laid down the groundwork for understanding these topics in a holistic Islamic way.
It's also necessary for us as adults to remember that yes, our 10-13yo kids ARE aware of these issues, & experiencing it themselves. If you'd rather live with your head buried in the sand, don't be mad at this book for talking about these things; be mad at yourself for failing in your kids' tarbiya to begin with.
And yes... I really am not thrilled with the cover art - specifically the girl on the left - because as much as I appreciate discussions on hijab-related pressures... it IS important to maintain emphasis on what is actually Islamically acceptable hijab to begin with. Those tights-under-a-short-skirt look ain't it. (#irony)
This is truly such a fantastic book, so brilliantly written, and 100% worth purchasing immediately.
4.9/5 🌟
#Bookstagram #Muslimbookstagram #bookreview #ownvoices #weneeddiversebooks #diversereads #MuslimMG #Muslimfiction #MyMuslimShelfSpace #Muslimrepresentation #authenticrepresentation #middlegradefiction #books
March 13, 2024
A beautiful book about feminism and having confidence in ourselves and the right to make choices about our own appearance. This would make a wonderful book for any young girl or teen to read. For women and girls we are always subjected to constant criticism, comments, and opinions on our looks and the way we dress from others. Especially for young girls, this can take its toll and we can end up dressing not for ourselves but to please others. I loved how this story reinforces and encourages us to be ourselves and make our own choices. I love the fiery responses of the mc’s friends and family to the boys who were harassing her. Also a great book for any women struggling with this also, or women considering becoming a hijabi! It did have some recommendations of famous hijab companies as well as tips and instructions within the story.
April 1, 2024
What a gorgeous book! So important and so needed and so emotional. I cried reading it and binged it in one night! So beautifully and masterfully written and so authentic and honest and raw. Full of Islam and so touching and truthful; I cant wait to hand this book to my middle school students.
Synopsis: Ainy is really excited to help her mom out with some fashion design over the summer at their shop. But when things start changing in her life, with her dad off to work somewhere else, their financial situation a little bit difficult, her older sister taking off hijab, and then a few boys from the community harassing her – Ainy starts to struggle. She tries anything to get the boys to leave her alone, but nothing works, and so she wears hijab. When things reach a peak, Ainy has to lean on the females around her, and discover what it means to stand up for yourself!
I really loved how this book addressed a huge topic- what does it mean to wear hijab. I know the resolution might not be the perfect resolution, but I think it actually reflects real life. Things are not always tied up in a neat, happy bow. And the reality is that no matter how girls look and how they dress, whether hijabi Muslim or not- they deserve respect. And hijab should be worn for the right reasons- an intention made from faith!
I also love how the author addressed such difficult conversations that are present in every community, including ours, about sexism, in a middle grade appropriate way, and still with full love of Islam. These books are needed, and I personally after reading went to sit with my daughter, and let her know that I will love her and be there for her no matter what, and her worth is not in if she wears hijab or not.
A beautiful bingeable, well written story, and one that is a must for every reader, Muslim or not.
Synopsis: Ainy is really excited to help her mom out with some fashion design over the summer at their shop. But when things start changing in her life, with her dad off to work somewhere else, their financial situation a little bit difficult, her older sister taking off hijab, and then a few boys from the community harassing her – Ainy starts to struggle. She tries anything to get the boys to leave her alone, but nothing works, and so she wears hijab. When things reach a peak, Ainy has to lean on the females around her, and discover what it means to stand up for yourself!
I really loved how this book addressed a huge topic- what does it mean to wear hijab. I know the resolution might not be the perfect resolution, but I think it actually reflects real life. Things are not always tied up in a neat, happy bow. And the reality is that no matter how girls look and how they dress, whether hijabi Muslim or not- they deserve respect. And hijab should be worn for the right reasons- an intention made from faith!
I also love how the author addressed such difficult conversations that are present in every community, including ours, about sexism, in a middle grade appropriate way, and still with full love of Islam. These books are needed, and I personally after reading went to sit with my daughter, and let her know that I will love her and be there for her no matter what, and her worth is not in if she wears hijab or not.
A beautiful bingeable, well written story, and one that is a must for every reader, Muslim or not.
December 5, 2024
The story discusses one’s beliefs, faith, sisterhood, family, sexual harassment, bullying, community support and I SAY THIS BOOK HAS DONE EVERYTHING RIGHT!
Read
March 17, 2024Any Way You Look by Maleeha Siddiqui
I received an eBook ARC from Netgalley to read and review and give my honest opinion of.
First, if like myself, you are not of the Islamic faith, you may want to keep another way of accessing the internet to look up words or phrases that we may not know. Some phrases and words are explained, others, are not. You don't have to, but it's useful.
This book has a 12 year old Muslim girl as the main character. The author writes her in a very believable manner. Sometimes, she seems older than 12; sometimes, so much younger. Welcome to TWEENager's. Ainy is deciding whether to hijab or not. Her older sister has been, then suddenly does not. Ainy loves doing fashion designs and dreams of one day making outfits for those who hijab.
In her decision making, she feels alone. Her best friend hijab's, her sister did, until she didn't. Her mother wears the niqib. The boy she likes, and the one she doesn't, along with their friends are constantly around. Her "auntie" who is the mother of the boy she likes is judgemental toward Ainy and her family...while demanding they create one of a kind bridesmaid outfits for her daughter's wedding.
The book basically takes us through Ainy's process of deciding to hijab, and then not.
I think this is a book well worth reading and recommend to all.
NOTE TO PUBLISHER: Please work on getting the formatting of the book correct. The formatting went wonky repeatedly, making the book nearly impossible to read.
I received an eBook ARC from Netgalley to read and review and give my honest opinion of.
First, if like myself, you are not of the Islamic faith, you may want to keep another way of accessing the internet to look up words or phrases that we may not know. Some phrases and words are explained, others, are not. You don't have to, but it's useful.
This book has a 12 year old Muslim girl as the main character. The author writes her in a very believable manner. Sometimes, she seems older than 12; sometimes, so much younger. Welcome to TWEENager's. Ainy is deciding whether to hijab or not. Her older sister has been, then suddenly does not. Ainy loves doing fashion designs and dreams of one day making outfits for those who hijab.
In her decision making, she feels alone. Her best friend hijab's, her sister did, until she didn't. Her mother wears the niqib. The boy she likes, and the one she doesn't, along with their friends are constantly around. Her "auntie" who is the mother of the boy she likes is judgemental toward Ainy and her family...while demanding they create one of a kind bridesmaid outfits for her daughter's wedding.
The book basically takes us through Ainy's process of deciding to hijab, and then not.
I think this is a book well worth reading and recommend to all.
NOTE TO PUBLISHER: Please work on getting the formatting of the book correct. The formatting went wonky repeatedly, making the book nearly impossible to read.
February 1, 2025
Ainy is excited for school to be over so that she can work at her mother's shop. She hopes her mother will let her design clothes for her one-of-a-kind tailored creations. Not much turns out how she expects, though. Ainy finds out that with her father in Pakistan caring for her grandmother through her cancer treatment that money is tights. Not only that, her older sister suddenly stops wearing her hijab and won't talk about why. A boy from school starts harassing her both in person and in text. Her best friend has her own problems and Ainy doesn't feel that she can add to them. She decides to start wearing hijab to deter the boy, but that just brings a host of other problems. Finally, Ainy is able to confide her troubles to her mother and sister, and things take a turn for the better. This book explores one girl's journey to discover how to truly be herself and make her voice heard.
June 12, 2024
A powerful story of finding your voice and using it to advocate for yourself. [School Library Journal]
December 28, 2023
Paragraph
If you feel that hijab is like salat and that it should be done no matter what, even if you are being forced, your heart is not in it, or you are doing it to appease someone other than Allah swt, than this book is not for you. I am not a scholar, I should not be giving anyone Islamic advice or suggestions, but after sitting with this book for a few days, having read all 250 pages in one go, this is the crux that I have come up with regarding who will be the target Muslim audience for the book. The Islam flows and the central Islamic message is the importance of one's relationship with Allah swt. So whether the fictional characters are wearing hijab, considering hijab, removing hijab, I was not overly bothered, they were still praying, going to the masjid, attending halaqas, and spending time thinking about their relationship with Allah swt today and what they hope it will be in the future. The niqabi mother never forces her view on her daughters, the book does not get preachy, nor does it only show one perspective, as a result the reader is allowed to appreciate the other themes of the book and the impeccable writing. That being said, did I wish there was more sitting on the prayer rug conversing with Allah swt about what to do? Yes. Do I wish that everyone's hijab journey, both real and fictitious, was easy? Yes. Do I wish we lived in a world that women were respected no matter how they dressed? Absolutely. This book is middle grade and it takes on numerous sensitive topics, and in my very biased opinion does an incredible job. The book contains sexual harassment, judgement, peer pressure, stereotypes, gender roles, bullying and so much more. I truly couldn't put the book down, the tears of being seen kicked off the book, and then tears of strength concluded the book. Muslim and non Muslim readers alike, will be better for reading this unapologetic, OWN voice book.
SYNOPSIS:
Ainy's life is busy: school is wrapping up, summer plans with her best friend Safiya are being made, the family has moved into the basement of her crush Izyaan's house, her father is in Pakistan caring for an ill grandma, and Amma's clothing store, Naseerah's Almari, is getting busy. Ainy begs to work at the shop as Bajjo takes on a second job to help the family make ends meet, and when her Amma finally agrees, Quratulain's best laid plans to learn how to be a designer, and have the best summer ever, are about to be challenged.
Before she can design, she has to learn how the shop works, the frustration and time involved make her unable to fulfill her plans with Safiya causing a widening rift with the life long friends. Bajjo who has always been Ainy's role model starts shutting her out, and Izyaan's cousin Yasir seems to be everywhere Ainy is. She is not comfortable with him showing up at her work, bumping in to her all over town, messaging her at night, and she while she knows he is in the wrong, she starts to wonder if it is a result of something she has done. With no one to talk to, Ainy is left to handle the Yasir problem on her own, and the relentless anxiety, isolation, and fear begin to change Ainy and everyone is too busy to notice until all the threads combine: a big wedding order from Yassir's mom, hijabs being taken off and put on, and Ainy taking a stand.
WHY I LIKE IT:
The book hits close to some events I have experienced in my life, to the point that I had to check if the book had the typical disclaimer that the characters are a work of fiction and any resemblance is coincidental. The characters feel that real, and their emotions that relatable, that even at my old age, I was moved, invested, and unable to look away.
I love that the author provides a lot of perspectives about hijab, but does not make a heavy handed judgement, the title of the book hints that women should be respected, and valued, no matter how they dress, and the mom in the book does a great job of setting that tone as she asks her clients how they feel in different clothes, as she models how her daughter's choice to wear or not wear hijab is a reflection of their relationship with Allah swt, as her decision to wear niqab is hers.
There is no internalized Islamophobia, no othering, no watering down. The book is solid and I think even if you don't agree with the choices the characters make, the writing is strong enough that you can see why the characters did what they did for them.
My only real critique is the cover. I don't know why, but I don't love it. It doesn't scream fashion and Islam, and the strength of the writing, the characters, and their summer together deserve a better visual representation, sorry.
FLAGS:
Triggers for those who've experienced unwanted attention and sexual harassment. Does have boys and girls being friends, crushes mentioned, hijab, backbiting, bullying, stereotypes, peer pressure.
TOOLS FOR LEADING THE DISCUSSION:
While I can see why some people would not "approve" of the book, and some will love the book, I think in an environment of discussion and someone qualified (not me) to guide young readers this book would be an incredibly empowering, book to think about, enjoy, and relate to in an Islamic school book club setting.
May 31, 2024
The writing in this book was too childish for me to enjoy it. I get that it’s aimed at the younger portion of middle grade readers, but that doesn’t mean the writing should be dumbed down.
February 2, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss Plus
At the end of 6th grade, Ain't hopes that she can spend the summer helping out at her mother's dress shop, Naseerah's Almari (closet). She would love to design clothing and maybe even work on sewing, but instead gets stuck with helping customers and dealing with paperwork. When she finds out that her older sister, Bajjo, is going to work at a coffee shop to earn more money, she understands why her family needs to help out in this way, even if she doesn't enjoy it. Her father is in Pakistan caring for his mother, who has cancer, and Ainy and her family are living in the basement of family friends because they could no longer afford their apartment. Her younger brother, Kashif, is cared for by the mother of the house, who is very kind and helps out in many ways, but Ainy is struggling with her crush on Izyaan, the son of the family. When Gabina Auntie, who is well regarded in the community but rather mean, comes to the shop asking for a special rush order, Ainy's mother agrees to it because it will mean a lot of money, and even says that Ainy can work on the design. The downside of this is that Gabina Auntie's son, Yasir, has been giving unwanted attention to Ainy, and she's not sure how to make him stop. Her friend Safiya is struggling with all of the attention that is being giving to her infant sister, and is angry that Ainy has to spend so much time working, and feels ignored. After an incident at an amusement park outing where Yasir and other boys make not only unwanted remarks, but put their hands on Ainy, she is horrified, especially when SHE is the one who gets in trouble for inappropriate actions. She feels she can't go to Safiyah, her mother (who is busy and tired), or Bajjo (who has stopped wearing her hijab and seems distant), and tries to deal with the matter herself. With Safiya's help, she starts to wear the hijab so that she can hide under it, but knows deep down that wearing one should be an act of faith and not of escape. Eventually, she tells her friends and family what has gone on, and gets a lot of support from her mother, who tells her that it is entirely up to her and her own faith journey to decide what she wants to wear, and that no matter how women dress, they should always be respected. A short glossary at the end helps with some terms.
Strengths: Clothing is such an important facet of personal identity, and I loved Ainy's investment in her own personal style, as well as her attempts to help her mother. Showing the harder aspects of running a business was fantastic, and Bajjo was such a fantastic business woman, even though she is still in high school. Ainy's relationship with Izyaan was a good one, but his reluctance to go against his friends to support her is sadly realistic. The Pakistani Muslim community is well portrayed, and there is a wide range of hijabi experience represented, including the mother's wearing of a niqab. To get a better picture of the religious aspects of this book, I highly recommend reading Kirin's review of this book on Goodreads, since I don't have enough experience with Muslim culture to have an opinion on this topic. This author's Bhai for Now and Barakah Beats circulate well in my library, so I will definitely be purchasing this book.
Weaknesses: This started with some names of designers that few of my students will know. That's fine, but since designers change in popularity all the time, this inclusion might also date the book.
What I really think: This is a good addition to books that address unwanted attention, like Dee's Maybe He Just Likes You (which the author mentions in the afterword), or the decision to wear a hijab, like Zia's 2013 The Garden of My Imaan or Mehmoud's 2015 You're Not Proper. I also wish there were more books set in clothing boutiques, like the 2011 The Hijab Boutique by Michelle Khan.
I had a student whose mother imported clothing from Ghana and resold it. She wore so many colorful dresses, but I know that it would be inappropriate for me to wear them! If I make my own salwar kameez in denim or patchwork, would that be okay? It's the perfect style!
At the end of 6th grade, Ain't hopes that she can spend the summer helping out at her mother's dress shop, Naseerah's Almari (closet). She would love to design clothing and maybe even work on sewing, but instead gets stuck with helping customers and dealing with paperwork. When she finds out that her older sister, Bajjo, is going to work at a coffee shop to earn more money, she understands why her family needs to help out in this way, even if she doesn't enjoy it. Her father is in Pakistan caring for his mother, who has cancer, and Ainy and her family are living in the basement of family friends because they could no longer afford their apartment. Her younger brother, Kashif, is cared for by the mother of the house, who is very kind and helps out in many ways, but Ainy is struggling with her crush on Izyaan, the son of the family. When Gabina Auntie, who is well regarded in the community but rather mean, comes to the shop asking for a special rush order, Ainy's mother agrees to it because it will mean a lot of money, and even says that Ainy can work on the design. The downside of this is that Gabina Auntie's son, Yasir, has been giving unwanted attention to Ainy, and she's not sure how to make him stop. Her friend Safiya is struggling with all of the attention that is being giving to her infant sister, and is angry that Ainy has to spend so much time working, and feels ignored. After an incident at an amusement park outing where Yasir and other boys make not only unwanted remarks, but put their hands on Ainy, she is horrified, especially when SHE is the one who gets in trouble for inappropriate actions. She feels she can't go to Safiyah, her mother (who is busy and tired), or Bajjo (who has stopped wearing her hijab and seems distant), and tries to deal with the matter herself. With Safiya's help, she starts to wear the hijab so that she can hide under it, but knows deep down that wearing one should be an act of faith and not of escape. Eventually, she tells her friends and family what has gone on, and gets a lot of support from her mother, who tells her that it is entirely up to her and her own faith journey to decide what she wants to wear, and that no matter how women dress, they should always be respected. A short glossary at the end helps with some terms.
Strengths: Clothing is such an important facet of personal identity, and I loved Ainy's investment in her own personal style, as well as her attempts to help her mother. Showing the harder aspects of running a business was fantastic, and Bajjo was such a fantastic business woman, even though she is still in high school. Ainy's relationship with Izyaan was a good one, but his reluctance to go against his friends to support her is sadly realistic. The Pakistani Muslim community is well portrayed, and there is a wide range of hijabi experience represented, including the mother's wearing of a niqab. To get a better picture of the religious aspects of this book, I highly recommend reading Kirin's review of this book on Goodreads, since I don't have enough experience with Muslim culture to have an opinion on this topic. This author's Bhai for Now and Barakah Beats circulate well in my library, so I will definitely be purchasing this book.
Weaknesses: This started with some names of designers that few of my students will know. That's fine, but since designers change in popularity all the time, this inclusion might also date the book.
What I really think: This is a good addition to books that address unwanted attention, like Dee's Maybe He Just Likes You (which the author mentions in the afterword), or the decision to wear a hijab, like Zia's 2013 The Garden of My Imaan or Mehmoud's 2015 You're Not Proper. I also wish there were more books set in clothing boutiques, like the 2011 The Hijab Boutique by Michelle Khan.
I had a student whose mother imported clothing from Ghana and resold it. She wore so many colorful dresses, but I know that it would be inappropriate for me to wear them! If I make my own salwar kameez in denim or patchwork, would that be okay? It's the perfect style!
June 23, 2025
A coming of age book about a Pakistani American Muslim girl, Ainy. Ainy loves modest fashion and hopes to be a designer one day. The book outlines her struggle with navigating sexual harassment and her journey with the hijab.
Muslim Lens: would recommend it to young Muslims based on their background and maturity. There are some big topics being discussed, such as harassment and the many ways it can be manifested, there is talk about hijab and niqab, and a family member going through cancer. The story comes together very nicely at the end…loved the imagery of textiles and cloth..was refreshing to see this part of Pakistan represented so beautifully.
Before giving this book to a Muslim youth, I’d have serious a discussion about hijab and its requirement in Islam. This book makes it seem optional and something you do when you’re intention is solely for God (which is not the case, there’s a wonderful article on Yaqeen institute about this)…technically everything a Muslim is asked to do should be done with that intention..:including prayer…now let’s say you feel like you’re offering your salat just to show off to others…should you stop praying until you fix your intention? That’s a conversation that should be had before giving thy is book to Muslim kids. Another point that could be discussed in a Muslim adult book club would be…what responsibility do Muslim authors have to stay true to the faith? Authors are often bound by their publishers requirements as well…how do they maintain integrity?
What I didn’t like: Ainy complains about her relatives who brought them to America and then left them to fend for themselves….no one forced Ainy’s family to move to America…I know two families who have sponsored many relatives from Pakistan…it is incredibly costly, and it was done at the request of the relatives themselves. America has much more fair work opportunities than Pakistan…so I found this part a little strange and a bit whiny. However at the end of the book we find out that part of the reason Ainy’s mom’s sister distanced herself was because of Ainy’s mom’s niqab? If that’s the case…then the Texas family really doesn’t deserve any praise.:.but sponsoring others and then letting them strive for their own opportunities…it seems pretty fair considering sponsoring is not easy…
Muslim Lens: would recommend it to young Muslims based on their background and maturity. There are some big topics being discussed, such as harassment and the many ways it can be manifested, there is talk about hijab and niqab, and a family member going through cancer. The story comes together very nicely at the end…loved the imagery of textiles and cloth..was refreshing to see this part of Pakistan represented so beautifully.
Before giving this book to a Muslim youth, I’d have serious a discussion about hijab and its requirement in Islam. This book makes it seem optional and something you do when you’re intention is solely for God (which is not the case, there’s a wonderful article on Yaqeen institute about this)…technically everything a Muslim is asked to do should be done with that intention..:including prayer…now let’s say you feel like you’re offering your salat just to show off to others…should you stop praying until you fix your intention? That’s a conversation that should be had before giving thy is book to Muslim kids. Another point that could be discussed in a Muslim adult book club would be…what responsibility do Muslim authors have to stay true to the faith? Authors are often bound by their publishers requirements as well…how do they maintain integrity?
What I didn’t like: Ainy complains about her relatives who brought them to America and then left them to fend for themselves….no one forced Ainy’s family to move to America…I know two families who have sponsored many relatives from Pakistan…it is incredibly costly, and it was done at the request of the relatives themselves. America has much more fair work opportunities than Pakistan…so I found this part a little strange and a bit whiny. However at the end of the book we find out that part of the reason Ainy’s mom’s sister distanced herself was because of Ainy’s mom’s niqab? If that’s the case…then the Texas family really doesn’t deserve any praise.:.but sponsoring others and then letting them strive for their own opportunities…it seems pretty fair considering sponsoring is not easy…
November 12, 2024
Ainy lives with her mom, older sister, and little brother in the basement of a friend's house. It's all they can afford, with her father away in Pakistan, taking care of his mother, and Ainy's aunt--who brought them to the US--abandoning them for another state. Ainy's mom is a clothes designer and maker, and is working her fingers to the bone to support them. Ainy really wants to design clothes, too, and manages to get her mother to let her (Ainy) work in the shop for the summer, and maybe even design some clothes! But things start going wrong when a group of local Muslim boys start giving Ainy lots of unwanted attention, even visiting the store. She shrinks into herself, avoiding her best friend and not telling her mother and sister because Ainy thinks maybe she's doing something wrong, to draw this attention. Her best friend is already a proud hijabi, as Ainy wants to be, and Ainy's sister was her role model until she abruptly stopped wearing her hijab without explanation. Ainy finally decides that wearing the hijab might stop the unwanted attention, but it doesn't. Can she finally find the strength to ask for help?
This was so good, and you feel so bad for Ainy thinking things are her fault! Very understandable and typical of the age, but I hope lots of girls read this and other books like it and know it's not their fault. Ainy loves fashion, especially "modest" fashion, and makes it very clear to the main offender that she is completely not interested in him. Ainy does make some bad decisions, like shutting out her best friend and being mean to her sister, as well as not seeking help earlier, but again they are perfectly understandable for her age. I loved the focus on fashion, as well as insight into the mechanics of a hijab--it's not something you'd want to ask someone who wears one, but good to know. I mean, magnets, how brilliant is that? I also thought the tension about reasons for wearing a hijab were enlightening, and that wearing one for the wrong reason--such as trying to avoid unwanted attention--rather than for spiritual reasons might mean the wearer isn't really ready for it. And that that is ok. Overall, a winner!
This was so good, and you feel so bad for Ainy thinking things are her fault! Very understandable and typical of the age, but I hope lots of girls read this and other books like it and know it's not their fault. Ainy loves fashion, especially "modest" fashion, and makes it very clear to the main offender that she is completely not interested in him. Ainy does make some bad decisions, like shutting out her best friend and being mean to her sister, as well as not seeking help earlier, but again they are perfectly understandable for her age. I loved the focus on fashion, as well as insight into the mechanics of a hijab--it's not something you'd want to ask someone who wears one, but good to know. I mean, magnets, how brilliant is that? I also thought the tension about reasons for wearing a hijab were enlightening, and that wearing one for the wrong reason--such as trying to avoid unwanted attention--rather than for spiritual reasons might mean the wearer isn't really ready for it. And that that is ok. Overall, a winner!
May 29, 2024
Age 8/9+
An engaging quick read with strong character voice deals with modern middle school problems through a Muslim lens. I especially liked the depiction of how even the Muslim community places judgment on a girl/woman's decision to become a hijabi, as that is not an element that I ever considered.
As to whether I read this as a sexual harassment book, at least at the outset...it's complicated.
Way more engrossing than Barakah Beats, which I didn't manage to get through more than a few chapters of. Will definitely recommend to 4-7th graders looking for a contemporary female coming of age story, especially those looking for one with "clean" content.
An engaging quick read with strong character voice deals with modern middle school problems through a Muslim lens. I especially liked the depiction of how even the Muslim community places judgment on a girl/woman's decision to become a hijabi, as that is not an element that I ever considered.
As to whether I read this as a sexual harassment book, at least at the outset...it's complicated.
Way more engrossing than Barakah Beats, which I didn't manage to get through more than a few chapters of. Will definitely recommend to 4-7th graders looking for a contemporary female coming of age story, especially those looking for one with "clean" content.
July 16, 2024
Ainy has big plans for the summer, hoping to work in her mother's boutique and prove she can contribute with her fashion design skills and check all the must-do summer fun items off the list her best friend Safiya has been keeping. Ainy is also debating whether to begin wearing the hijab as her role model big sister, Kulsoom, does. It turns out balancing work in the shop, her friendship with Safiya, and missing her father—who is away helping to care for his ill mother in Pakistan—is a lot for Ainy to handle. As summer begins, Ainy also finds she is receiving a great deal of unwanted attention from one of the boys in her class who refuses to leave her alone, even after she makes her feelings perfectly clear.
One of the best things about this novel is the way Ainy's Muslim faith is an integral part of her family and larger community, woven so beautifully into the narrative by Siddiqui. Readers do not need to be Muslim, or even understand much about the Muslim faith, to relate to Ainy and the things she struggles with. Changing relationships, crushes, family stress, figuring out how you want to present yourself to the world…all of these are universal parts of the early adolescent experience. The unwanted attention from a male peer, the stress it causes, and the way Ainy's family ultimate steps to support her provide a relatively tame, but important, plot point for discussions about sexual harassment.
Recommended for grades 4-7.
One of the best things about this novel is the way Ainy's Muslim faith is an integral part of her family and larger community, woven so beautifully into the narrative by Siddiqui. Readers do not need to be Muslim, or even understand much about the Muslim faith, to relate to Ainy and the things she struggles with. Changing relationships, crushes, family stress, figuring out how you want to present yourself to the world…all of these are universal parts of the early adolescent experience. The unwanted attention from a male peer, the stress it causes, and the way Ainy's family ultimate steps to support her provide a relatively tame, but important, plot point for discussions about sexual harassment.
Recommended for grades 4-7.
January 11, 2025
This Book was awesome
Perfection
Characters:
Ainy:
sweet and kind a classic Muslim middle school student. ABout to wear hijab. Has a crush and is a dreamer . CLASSIC
Safiyah; Ur average bestie bold confident and always has ur back and most likely the yapper.
Bajjo : ur everyday older sister in HS drifting away arguments and to busy for the little sib
AMarah; ooohhh I loved her she was a real bad ass not going to lie an had some good comebacks and knew how to deal w/ bratty hijabi . ANd disrespectful brothers and cousins.
Nameerah ( mom0 : ur everyday badass niqabi , cool mom u could say.
Iyzaan: idk even know what to say
shezi , abdullah, Mustafa:
the followers and the annoying ass boy group.
YYYYYYASSSIR :
I'm about to YAP
The annoying ass Harraser . Trying to get someone to like them stalking the presinsst talking, and then he had the audacity when she decided to wear hijab to hate on her. likeeee I could go on about how annoying he is but WE WONT
Khasif: ur chill lil bro
DRAMA
We got the stalking crush for ainy
ANnoying baby sister for Safiyah
Harassing boy judging her on her hijab for Bajjo
And YASir
SIKEEE
FInally we get our problem solved by our ainy amarah safiyah bajjo nad iyzaan
and I love how she beats Yasir like smacking him in the back of his head as he left
so yeah
srry for the messy review
Perfection
Characters:
Ainy:
sweet and kind a classic Muslim middle school student. ABout to wear hijab. Has a crush and is a dreamer . CLASSIC
Safiyah; Ur average bestie bold confident and always has ur back and most likely the yapper.
Bajjo : ur everyday older sister in HS drifting away arguments and to busy for the little sib
AMarah; ooohhh I loved her she was a real bad ass not going to lie an had some good comebacks and knew how to deal w/ bratty hijabi . ANd disrespectful brothers and cousins.
Nameerah ( mom0 : ur everyday badass niqabi , cool mom u could say.
Iyzaan: idk even know what to say
shezi , abdullah, Mustafa:
the followers and the annoying ass boy group.
YYYYYYASSSIR :
I'm about to YAP
The annoying ass Harraser . Trying to get someone to like them stalking the presinsst talking, and then he had the audacity when she decided to wear hijab to hate on her. likeeee I could go on about how annoying he is but WE WONT
Khasif: ur chill lil bro
DRAMA
We got the stalking crush for ainy
ANnoying baby sister for Safiyah
Harassing boy judging her on her hijab for Bajjo
And YASir
SIKEEE
FInally we get our problem solved by our ainy amarah safiyah bajjo nad iyzaan
and I love how she beats Yasir like smacking him in the back of his head as he left
so yeah
srry for the messy review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 1, 2025
Ainy has big plans for the summer, hoping to work in her mother's boutique and prove she can contribute with her fashion design skills and check all the must-do summer fun items off the list her best friend Safiya has been keeping. Ainy is also debating whether to begin wearing the hijab as her role model big sister, Kulsoom, does. It turns out balancing work in the shop, her friendship with Safiya, and missing her father—who is away helping to care for his ill mother in Pakistan—is a lot for Ainy to handle. As summer begins, Ainy also finds she is receiving a great deal of unwanted attention from one of the boys in her class who refuses to leave her alone, even after she makes her feelings perfectly clear.
One of the best things about this novel is the way Ainy's Muslim faith is an integral part of her family and larger community, woven so beautifully into the narrative by Siddiqui. Readers do not need to be Muslim, or even understand much about the Muslim faith, to relate to Ainy and the things she struggles with. Changing relationships, crushes, family stress, figuring out how you want to present yourself to the world…all of these are universal parts of the early adolescent experience. The unwanted attention from a male peer, the stress it causes, and the way Ainy's family ultimate steps to support her provide a relatively tame, but important, plot point for discussions about sexual harassment.
Recommended for grades 4-7.
K.M.
School Librarian
One of the best things about this novel is the way Ainy's Muslim faith is an integral part of her family and larger community, woven so beautifully into the narrative by Siddiqui. Readers do not need to be Muslim, or even understand much about the Muslim faith, to relate to Ainy and the things she struggles with. Changing relationships, crushes, family stress, figuring out how you want to present yourself to the world…all of these are universal parts of the early adolescent experience. The unwanted attention from a male peer, the stress it causes, and the way Ainy's family ultimate steps to support her provide a relatively tame, but important, plot point for discussions about sexual harassment.
Recommended for grades 4-7.
K.M.
School Librarian
March 15, 2024
A MG feminist book by @malsidink that fans of Maybe He Just Likes You will enjoy!
🥻
Ainy is ready for summer. She’s excited to have time away from school, hang out with her best friend, but most of all she wants to work in her mom’s dress shop. Ainy wants to be a designer when she grows up so helping out in the shop is the first step towards her dream. Unfortunately her summer gets derailed when her crush’s friend starts coming around her mom’s shop, texting her and then finally, making fun of her wearing her hijab, a right of passage she struggles with deciding on throughout the #novel Despite saying no multiple times, the boy and his friends don’t stop bothering her, giving Ainy lots of anxiety and affecting her friendships, work and family life.
🥻
I am such a huge fan of Maleeha’s books and knew I would love this one as much as I loved her other titles. This one has so much culture exploration, Muslim traditions for readers to learn about or connect to and the cover is so awesome. I read it in one sitting! Big thanks to @scholastic for sending me a copy of this realistic fiction book out May 7.
CW: unwanted attention & harassment, Islamophobia, bullying, stereotypes, peer pressure, misogyny
🥻
Ainy is ready for summer. She’s excited to have time away from school, hang out with her best friend, but most of all she wants to work in her mom’s dress shop. Ainy wants to be a designer when she grows up so helping out in the shop is the first step towards her dream. Unfortunately her summer gets derailed when her crush’s friend starts coming around her mom’s shop, texting her and then finally, making fun of her wearing her hijab, a right of passage she struggles with deciding on throughout the #novel Despite saying no multiple times, the boy and his friends don’t stop bothering her, giving Ainy lots of anxiety and affecting her friendships, work and family life.
🥻
I am such a huge fan of Maleeha’s books and knew I would love this one as much as I loved her other titles. This one has so much culture exploration, Muslim traditions for readers to learn about or connect to and the cover is so awesome. I read it in one sitting! Big thanks to @scholastic for sending me a copy of this realistic fiction book out May 7.
CW: unwanted attention & harassment, Islamophobia, bullying, stereotypes, peer pressure, misogyny
December 19, 2024
A short, realistic novel about a modest-fashion-loving Pakistani American 12-year-old girl Ainy, who is coping for the first time with unwanted attention from a boy in her tight-knit Muslim community.
When Yasir flirts with Ainy, it sends her into a panic, in which she is unable to continue with her creative projects, she hides herself and her feelings from her family and friends, and - like a deer in headlights - she only gives him more attention by staring back at him, making it worse.
For some readers in 5th-7th grades, it may be interesting to hear a Muslim perspective on the awkwardness preteens experience when there's a mismatch of maturity levels. Ainy is quick to point the finger at Yasir, even when she admits that the same attention coming from Izyaan would actually be welcome, and even when her boldness in staring back at him and approaching him directly in public are equally discouraged in their cultural circles. For readers who rely on logic, she will seem to be a hypocrite.
Furthermore, in the opening chapters, Ainy seems to be self-centered, superficial, and arrogant in some situations, and insecure and tentative in others - unfortunately unappealing from every direction! I didn't find much to like about Ainy, so every time she let someone down - her friend, her mother, her sister, her baby brother, in various ways, multiple times - instead of feeling empathy for her struggles, I felt irritated, distanced, and disengaged.
When Ainy finally decides to begin wearing a hijab - earlier than she or her family expected, but without consulting her sister or mother, her best friend Safiya comes to the rescue...but they rehearse and launch it as if it was a surprise fashion look. Readers who are unfamiliar with the practice (like me) will understand that the path Ainy has taken is not related to religion, and seems to betray her disconnection from the deeper meaning of the Islamic faith.
If this was written by an author who wasn't Muslim, I would wonder if it would be taken as insulting to Muslims. Since the author is Muslim, I only wonder if it's insulting to preteens.
When Yasir flirts with Ainy, it sends her into a panic, in which she is unable to continue with her creative projects, she hides herself and her feelings from her family and friends, and - like a deer in headlights - she only gives him more attention by staring back at him, making it worse.
For some readers in 5th-7th grades, it may be interesting to hear a Muslim perspective on the awkwardness preteens experience when there's a mismatch of maturity levels. Ainy is quick to point the finger at Yasir, even when she admits that the same attention coming from Izyaan would actually be welcome, and even when her boldness in staring back at him and approaching him directly in public are equally discouraged in their cultural circles. For readers who rely on logic, she will seem to be a hypocrite.
Furthermore, in the opening chapters, Ainy seems to be self-centered, superficial, and arrogant in some situations, and insecure and tentative in others - unfortunately unappealing from every direction! I didn't find much to like about Ainy, so every time she let someone down - her friend, her mother, her sister, her baby brother, in various ways, multiple times - instead of feeling empathy for her struggles, I felt irritated, distanced, and disengaged.
When Ainy finally decides to begin wearing a hijab - earlier than she or her family expected, but without consulting her sister or mother, her best friend Safiya comes to the rescue...but they rehearse and launch it as if it was a surprise fashion look. Readers who are unfamiliar with the practice (like me) will understand that the path Ainy has taken is not related to religion, and seems to betray her disconnection from the deeper meaning of the Islamic faith.
If this was written by an author who wasn't Muslim, I would wonder if it would be taken as insulting to Muslims. Since the author is Muslim, I only wonder if it's insulting to preteens.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 30, 2024
I appreciated the note at the end of the book in which Siddiqui talks about Barbara Dee's book because that's exactly what I was thinking about while listening to this one-- the subtleness of this time of behavior in which Ainy felt belittled and harassed by a group of boys in her Muslim community. She was looking forward to a different kind of summer, one where she could help out her mother in the fashion/clothing shop she runs, bonding with her sister, but still having fun with her best friend, however they are worried about money since Dad is back in Pakistan taking care of the cancer-ridden grandmother.
Ainy instead tries to trudge on even when the boys are annoying her and since she's already been considering wearing hijab, that's a constant internal thought process then external when she sees her sister taking off hijab and how their mother, who wears niqab and what that means for women in her family and in their larger community.
Luckily the boys don't win, Ainy's perseverance and open dialogue, even when she messes up a few things with her mother's orders and business, allows every reader to root for Ainy.
Ainy instead tries to trudge on even when the boys are annoying her and since she's already been considering wearing hijab, that's a constant internal thought process then external when she sees her sister taking off hijab and how their mother, who wears niqab and what that means for women in her family and in their larger community.
Luckily the boys don't win, Ainy's perseverance and open dialogue, even when she messes up a few things with her mother's orders and business, allows every reader to root for Ainy.
May 16, 2025
I love this book for younger me, who jumped into the hijab headfirst (get it, ha ha) without listening to my heart and people around me advising me to give it time. I'm happy with my decision, but it's really nice to read someone who's struggling with the impact because sooo many of us are defined in an overly righteous or overly demonized way, no matter where you go.... I love it for teens and tweens who need to hear someone say that it's a personal decision, made based on your faith and intention. There are so many outside voices who pressure you to wear it 'because you're a good Muslimah" or believe you're more religious if you do - and then, you're not if you wear eyeliner? Or if you don't wear it, you must be out there living some kind of outrageous lifestyle ... it's so hard, and I'm no longer an adolescent. The way that Siddiqui layered the harassment in was wonderful - hijab doesn't protect you from it, and yes, our young women face this daily. I was really glad she spoke up and the author chose to have it denied and showcase how women are blamed for bringing attention on themselves. Well written narrative for girls who need to hear this perspective.
September 29, 2025
This book was something I wished I would've read when I was in middle school. It was a really good coming of age like book. I loved the main character and the issues she faced were definitely some things I faced when I was her age. It was a delightful read and well written in my opinion.
That being said, there was one thing I did not like (spoiler-ish ahead): The notion that it is okay to take off your hijab. I am fully aware this is an issue that women face, but it is forbidden to do so in Islam, and I do wish the book handled it as such instead of letting it seem like it was alright for it to happen. In general, I don't hate the way that concept was handled in the book, but I do think it could have been done a little better (I hope this makes sense). It's hard to write a book about religion because we have to make sure we don't misrepresent or spread misinformation.
In all, Ainy handled life a lot like many muslim girls her age do. It was emotional for me at times and honestly, it was really nice to relate to a book as much as I did. If you haven't read Any Way You Look, I would certainly recommend you do.
That being said, there was one thing I did not like (spoiler-ish ahead): The notion that it is okay to take off your hijab. I am fully aware this is an issue that women face, but it is forbidden to do so in Islam, and I do wish the book handled it as such instead of letting it seem like it was alright for it to happen. In general, I don't hate the way that concept was handled in the book, but I do think it could have been done a little better (I hope this makes sense). It's hard to write a book about religion because we have to make sure we don't misrepresent or spread misinformation.
In all, Ainy handled life a lot like many muslim girls her age do. It was emotional for me at times and honestly, it was really nice to relate to a book as much as I did. If you haven't read Any Way You Look, I would certainly recommend you do.
August 24, 2024
Ainy (12) is ready for summer where she can help work in her mother's fashion store and maybe learn more about the fashion design she loves so much. Her best friend, Safiya, has their whole summer planned, but when Ainy's workload gets to be too much, Safiya begins to pull away. On top of that, Ainy's older sister, Kulsoom, stopswearing her hijab, and boys, especially unreligious Yasir, have taken more notice of Ainy and won't leave her alone. Though she has always wanted to wear the hijab, she thinks wearing it now will help get the Yasir and his boys to leave her alone which doesn't work. She wants to focus on designing bridesmaids dresses for the shops biggest order, but everything her her creative fashion brain in a lock down. This coming of age journey for Pakistani Ainy is all about self-worth, confidence, deterimaton, faith while dealing with sexual harrassment, bullying, and her own self-doubts. A strong feminist undertone lauers through the book while tackling Muslim religion from a middle school frame of mind.
August 12, 2024
As I am not Muslim, I had to look up a lot of words in this book to make sure I knew what was happening or what people were wearing during the story. But that's okay, because I have read a lot of books in my life that are set in my culture, but probably weren't all clear to people from other cultures. I liked the story with the neighborhood extended family who all know each other and everyone else's business. I love Ainy's fashion dreams and her confidence in herself (until events make her less confident). I was a bit baffled by her concern about Yasif and his attention to her. To me, it was clear he liked her, but I didn't feel that he was being overly inappropriate about it. So I am left to wonder if this is another cultural difference I'm not getting. Despite whatever issues I experienced in reading the book, I know it will be popular with my students and can't wait to get a copy on the shelves for them!
August 19, 2025
decent!
a tad juvenile (my b, i thought ainy was 13 and shes only 12 whoops but that difference is STARK), but still sweet! v similar in tone to not quite a ghost, i think ainy and violet could be friends
also the 12/13 yr old my fave color is teal is sTRONG with this one and it is.... oh boy
but HELL YEAH to a young girl speaking up for herself !! I HATE BOYS ESP MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS FUCK YALL
having a glossary at the back is top notch and i <333 big sister moments
a lot did go on and not everything felt perfectly tied up in a bow, but i still really enjoyed the ride this took me on
very scrambler (carnival ride) coded in that i love it and it only gave me a small headache
and hello fashionista!! BUT MINT GREEN? EW! mint green is good for oreos and thin mints alone dont pmo
a tad juvenile (my b, i thought ainy was 13 and shes only 12 whoops but that difference is STARK), but still sweet! v similar in tone to not quite a ghost, i think ainy and violet could be friends
also the 12/13 yr old my fave color is teal is sTRONG with this one and it is.... oh boy
but HELL YEAH to a young girl speaking up for herself !! I HATE BOYS ESP MIDDLE SCHOOL BOYS FUCK YALL
having a glossary at the back is top notch and i <333 big sister moments
a lot did go on and not everything felt perfectly tied up in a bow, but i still really enjoyed the ride this took me on
very scrambler (carnival ride) coded in that i love it and it only gave me a small headache
and hello fashionista!! BUT MINT GREEN? EW! mint green is good for oreos and thin mints alone dont pmo
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews