All That Chandni Knows

by Khushboo Patel

For twelve-year-old Chandni, 1999 is the year everything must be perfect.

And why shouldn’t it be? Her parents are well respected doctors in the community, she’s the leader of her friend group, and her crush is even hinting at liking her back. She also has her sights set high on a spot at India’s most prestigious boarding school for girls. If she stays focused and works hard, the dream just may be in reach.

But as the boarding school selection looms closer, Chandni is overwhelmed by a devastating secret that’s threatening to tear her family apart. With life and relationships spiraling around her, Chandni will have to decide between pursuing her ambitions or protecting her family.

Set against the vibrant yet tumultuous backdrop of 1990s India, this debut novel weaves a beautiful and vulnerable story about the power of letting go.

Genres: Middle Grade, Historical, Historical Fiction, Cultural, Childrens, Realistic Fiction, India

272 pages, Hardcover

First published March 31, 2026

Reviews

[Shifa Safadi · Rating 5 out of 5]

A story that soars from quite literally the very first page- Chandni burst into my heart and never let go! My heart tugged as she struggled with her family secret, wanting to flip the pages quick to find out what happens and yet also slowing down to savor every stanza of absolutely stunning verse— or laughing at the audacious sparkling voice. A book brimming with both humor and heart, Patel’s debut is a remarkable tale of finding oneself among the imperfect rollercoaster of life. I know I will be rereading this gorgeous story again and again and recommending it as a masterclass of verse novels!”

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a big-hearted middle grade novel in verse that follows 12 year old Chadni living in India in 1999 with her nuclear family and her aunt. It's all about friendship, family secrets, cultural traditions and all the usual pains of growing up (ie first periods) but man did my heart hurt for the heavy secret Chadni is forced to keep to avoid breaking up her family. I enjoyed it on audio and would definitely recommend for fans of books like Red, white and whole by Rajani LaRocca.

[Meg Eden · Rating 4 out of 5]

This child eats a lot of ice cream for meals???

[Kirin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is crafted beautifully. I was drawn in from the first page and did not move until I finished the last word on the last page. That being said, I am of Desi decent and I am an adult. While I can argue how important this book is, I truly have no idea who the audience is and cannot confidently predict how an MG reader will be impacted. The anxiety and coping and weight from the very beginning of young Chandni grappling with the secret of her father having an affair with her mother's younger sister, who shares a room with the 12 year old, is a lot. And the strength and beauty of the writing makes the emotion palpable, even if vagueness is often employed to keep the book from being graphic so to speak. Set in a world before cell phones, in a culture perhaps unfamiliar to the reader, will that secret be something a middle schooler can understand enough to grasp, will it be a barrier to fully understanding the gravity of the plot, if they do grasp it, will they be ok?

The book is important, the lifeline it could provide for kids that must go through this and the recognition that they are seen, undoubtedly is needed, but will it find the reader that "needs" it or will it be just anxiety inducing for children who live in joint families and have one more fear to worry about. I don't expect a work of fiction to offer resources, but with no real resolution to Chandni's situation, the weight is further intensified.

This book will haunt me for a long while. The author brilliantly touches on coming of age with a period scene, disconnect with a sibling, feeling othered in a society that doesn't celebrate differences, and showing that just because you seemingly have it all together, things are not always easy. It also talks about the looming threat of sexual assault, misogyny, and breaking societal norms, all in 272 pages of verse.

I had heard there was a Muslim side character, so I read the book to see how she was represented and while her faith is only a label, it provides commentary on religious prejudice in Indian culture and models how to overcome it. A point of representation that is often not shown, and done so gives hope and acknowledgement in a loving respectful way.

[TheNextGenLibrarian · Rating 4 out of 5]

A middle grade historical fiction novel-in-verse by debut author @khushboo_.patel._
🏫
In 1999 India, twelve-year-old Chandni has her future carefully planned: she’s determined to earn a spot at a prestigious boarding school while balancing friendships, family expectations, and a budding crush. But as the selection process nears, a devastating family secret begins to unravel her seemingly perfect life. Caught between chasing her dreams and protecting her family, Chandni must navigate change, loss, and what it truly means to let go.
🏠
I adored this title. I read it in one sitting. I was completely engrossed in Chandni’s story, and even though it’s set in 1999, so many of the themes feel incredibly relevant today—especially the discussions surrounding the imminent threat of sexual assault, misogyny, and the pressure of breaking societal norms. It feels both specific to its setting and universally relatable. The central secret Chandni carries is heavy, and for that reason, I’d firmly recommend this for middle school readers rather than elementary, in my opinion. Can’t wait to read more by this author!

CW: infidelity, misogyny, sexual harassment

[Ruth M · Rating 5 out of 5]

While masterfully incorporating details from the culture of an Indian city in 1999, Chandni’s story carries a universal appeal. Dilemmas faced by middle schoolers come into play, yet with a sensitivity and beauty of language that makes the novel in verse compelling for young adult and adult readers as well. Beginning with "secret" as the final word in the first vignette, the tension surrounding Chandni’s family issues keeps readers hooked as it builds to a breaking point. Chandni has one foot in the world of adults, as shown by her carefully calculated attempts to solve a troubling situation, but her unfiltered outbursts are reminders that she is still a child. When the family reading at the breakfast table focuses on the definition of ambivalence, young readers are gifted with a way of understanding Chandni’s emotions and possibly their own—feelings and ideas can be mixed and contradictory. The strength of the mother-daughter bond provides reassurance and a satisfying conclusion for this heartfelt novel.

[Pernille Ripp · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loved sinking into the world of 1999 Vadodara, India in this middle grade novel in verse. Chandni wants this year to be absolutely perfect—but what do you do when you’re carrying a secret that could tear your family apart?

The book pulls us into the life of a young teenager navigating shifting relationships with her brother and her family, the weight of secrets, and the quiet, complicated changes that come with becoming a young woman in India. I loved falling into this world, page by page, line by line.

This is a book that may feel unfamiliar to many of us in setting and context, and yet it speaks to something deeply universal: staying true to yourself, holding onto who you are, and learning how to weather the storms that come your way.

Thank you to Penguin for access to a preview copy. The book comes out in March 2026, and it is absolutely worth a pre-order. Opinion is my own and not paid for.

[Ms. Yingling · Rating 3 out of 5]

E ARC provided by Edelweiss

**Spoilers**

While I very much enjoyed seeing the depiction of daily life in Gujarat in 1999 (and was amazed that there were so many cultural references that are the same in the US!), the exploration of colorism, and Chandni's struggles to get into boarding school, I'm not sure that I want to hand middle school readers a story where the father is having an affair with the mother's sister, Diya Masi. Not only that, but Diya Masi lives in the family home, shares a room with Chandni, and while Chandni knows about the affair (and is told that the mother is okay with it), the mother does not and is devastated at the end of the book. There are no details at all about any activity, so my objection doesn't lie there. This is a novel in verse, and I wish there were more support for Chandni throughout.

This was lyrical and heart felt, but perhaps just not the right choice for my readers in grades 6-8.

[Richa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed All That Chandni Knows by Khushboo Patel. Written as a novel in verse, it feels so real,like you’re right inside Chandni’s thoughts as she navigates her world, her struggles, and her growth.As someone who grew up in India in the 90s, this book felt especially personal. It brought back so many memories - the little details, the sights, the sounds, and the emotions that shaped that time. You can tell the author has done incredible research because the setting, experiences, and cultural nuances are all so accurately portrayed.
The story beautifully explores Chandni's relationships and choices, with friendship drama that feels real, family secrets that slowly unfold, and a beautiful mother-daughter bond that adds depth and heart.This is a book I will definitely be rereading.
All That Chandni Knows is a story that lingers long after its last page.

[Jeni Enjaian · Rating 4 out of 5]

(actual rating: 3.5 stars)
Patel did a decent job with all the building blocks of this novel from the setting to the conflict to the development of the main character. Patel presents authentic conflict for the main character as she stays temporarily with her newly married sister so that she, the main character, can attend a prestigious summer camp. While there, Chandni witnesses her sister become overwhelmed by her new duties to this family and seemingly sacrifice her own dreams. Chandni learns and grows from her mistakes as she confronts her sister - and from other events in the story. Patel, wisely, did not try to do too much in the narrative, keeping a middle grade reader from potentially becoming overwhelmed. (I personally did not engage as much as I would wish with the novel, hence the slightly slower than 4 star rating.)

[Nihar · Rating 5 out of 5]

All That Chandni Knows by Khushboo Patel is a deeply emotional and beautifully written novel. I genuinely enjoyed reading it. There were several moments that tugged at my heartstrings-the emotions felt raw, honest, and incredibly real.

Chandni is the kind of protagonist you can't help but root for. As her story unfolds, all you want to do is give her a hug. Her vulnerabilities, strength, and journey are portrayed with so much authenticity that she stays with you long after you've finished the book.

Khushboo Patel's writing is engaging and immersive, making it difficult to put the book down. It's a heartfelt story that captures the complexities of life and human emotions with grace and sensitivity.

If you enjoy character-driven stories that are emotionally resonant and beautifully told, I'd definitely recommend this book.

[Luv2TrvlLuvBks · Rating 4 out of 5]

The power of words is what a reader thinks when reading this book.

Initially, the format of verse rather than traditional prose was off putting. Not a fan of poetry as a genre. This read, however, blew those assumptions away.

Chandi’s frustration with her father is palatable. With good reason, she questions the praise he easily doles out to her brother when her success is evident. Or when the sordid truth of her family’s dynamic comes to light.

Thank you Penguin Young Readers Group | G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

#AllThatChandniKnows #NetGalley

[Mariah Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book and loved the main character. Although she is a very typical 12 year old her voice is so interesting and so real she shines. And the touches of what all 12 year old girls face with getting her period, her first crush, school stress and sibling rivalry while handing family issues makes me love her even more. The ending was a bit rushed but I hope that it could result in a sequel with a look at the new chapter the characters are stepping into. Side note as a preteen/teen of the 90's seeing there version of matching names up and marking out the like letters was a fun throwback.

[Saloni (earnestlyeccentric) · Rating 3 out of 5]

12-year-0ld Chandni is hellbent on getting into a prestigious school, but a dark secret weighs on her shoulders.

Spoilers ahead.

I was pleasantly surprised at how much this book resonated with me. It was the small things like the pollution that clouds your throat, or the way I feel so conscious putting shorts on in Mumbai (even though things have gotten a LOT better than they were). I also thought the whole father having an affair plot was very well written, especially the guilt and weight of knowledge Chandni carried around. I've recommended this book to my sister because I desperately need someone to debrief with about this book.

[Brooke DeBoest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Chandni is struggling with all the changes that come with growing up, but her energy is mostly focused on her shifting relationships with her family. Her brother is finding his own way, and when Chandni finds out a secret centered around her father and aunt, she has no one to turn to.

This novel-in-verse is full of emotion and a face-paced read. While the topic of family secrecy is a little heavy at times, I think there will be many youth who can identify with Chandni's situation and reactions.

Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC!

[R.C. Chizhov · Rating 5 out of 5]

This one really stayed with me.
Chandni is easy to care about, even in the moments where you want to reach into the page and stop her. The story carries a difficult, central truth, but the author handles it with a lot of sensitivity and respect for younger readers. It captures that complicated space where you can deeply love your family and still feel trapped by circumstances you have no say in. The 1999 Vadodara setting feels so lived-in and real. Told in powerful verse, this is a must read for middle graders, and adults will enjoy it too!

[Madhu · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely beautifully written, thoughtful and emotional story. The tension builds slowly, hints are dropped along the way, and the lyrical language made me read the book cover to cover in one sitting. Khushboo captures complicated family dynamics with ease. She vividly paints scenes with her words. While I loved so much about the book, the last line took my breath away. Perfection!

[Jessica Yoon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! This book hooks you from the first page. If you want a book that has all this:
- secrets
- complex family dynamics
- evolving friendship
- first crushes
- food descriptions that make you hungry
you must read All That Chandni Knows! It is layered and emotionally resonant, heartbreaking, yet empowering. A wonderfully written debut that will stick with you for long time.

[Jasmine Fang · Rating 5 out of 5]

ALL THAT CHANDNI KNOWS is a beautifully written and meaningful novel-in-verse set in the backdrop of India. This story is emotionally resonant, explores family and friendship dynamics, tugs-on-your-heartstrings, and is relatable for so many. Khushboo's a talented writer and I recommend her other books, including STOLEN COLORS. Brava!

[Hailee Mumme · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ rounded up.

I appreciated the cultural details. The descriptions of food, celebrations, music, etc. The book isn't just trying to teach the reader about life in Gujarat at the brink of the new millennium but actively inviting them into Chandni's world.

In-verse made it really easy to consume - even for those not familiar with “India” as a nation and its many complexities.

[LS Johnson · Rating 3 out of 5]

NIV format, which was a big plus for this book. the story took a long time working up to the "big secret" and that made the plot feel undeveloped. once the secret was revealed i wanted to read more about how chandni felt, what she did and said. the ending was odd for me. still a good read because i'm not sure there are a lot of current books about this topic in middle grade.

[Cherie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick novel-in-verse (MS) about a girl who is struggling with every day things - crushes, first period, wanting to go away to boarding school - while in a weird family dynamic - she lives w her parents and her brother and her aunt - while knowing a very big family secret that is crushing her and destroying a family relationship. Might take place in India but so much is relatable.

[Libby · Rating 2 out of 5]

First, I want to give credit to Patel for tackling a difficult subject. Unfortunately I did struggle with this book. I never felt like I connected with Chandni and while I ached for the secret she was carrying, I finished reading still feeling depressed. For an older middle grade book, I felt like it needed a bit more resolution.

[Karen Reeder · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was very interesting to dive into a different culture and also experience a heavy topic. The verses were very well done and the story flowed smoothly with real things that every middle schooler goes through like friendship and crushes as well as the intense family conflict that were unique to this particular story. Full of emotion and heart.

[Courtney · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed seeing the 90s life in a different culture and place. My favorite is the game they play that is their version of MASH, I really enjoyed that bit. This is a very stressful situation though and I am still sitting with my feelings about the ending.

[Shannon Watson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Haven't read anything like this. Very unique book with great lyrical writing and so compelling. Loved the setting and Chandni is easy to root for. Will help kids going through family troubles and will help others build empathy.

[Lisa Ball · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautifully written book. Chandni is an incredibly realistic character dealing with so many issues and so easy to root for. I think some of my more advanced readers would like this, but for some there would not be enough action.

[Naja · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tender hearted, clever story with sparse, shimmering language. Slow growing tension that kept me at the edge of my seat following Chandni and her family. I want more stories about Chandni!

[Payal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing read! So touching 🥰

[Yogini Patel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing Book! Reminds me of my childhood a lot 😍🤩