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Shaila's Dance
For Anokhi, dance is more than art. It’s the key to finding her roots.
Since she was a child, Anokhi has been haunted by the same vivid vision: a mysterious dancing woman with golden anklet bells and white flowers in her ink-black hair. Her movements are hypnotic, flowing, beautiful. But who is she? And why does Anokhi feel so connected to her?
Growing up in small-town Idaho after being adopted from India as a baby, Anokhi has always felt like an outsider, caught between cultures, between reality and her dreams. When her best friend and fellow misfit, Kale, drops out of high school, she does too. Determined to find her place in the world, Anokhi buys a one-way plane ticket to Delhi, away from the woman who raised her and away from Kale, the boy she may or may not be a little bit in love with. When Anokhi’s search for answers to her past leads her to South India, she is swept into the magical world of Indian classical dance, which takes her down unexpected paths to discover what—and who—really matters.
Since she was a child, Anokhi has been haunted by the same vivid vision: a mysterious dancing woman with golden anklet bells and white flowers in her ink-black hair. Her movements are hypnotic, flowing, beautiful. But who is she? And why does Anokhi feel so connected to her?
Growing up in small-town Idaho after being adopted from India as a baby, Anokhi has always felt like an outsider, caught between cultures, between reality and her dreams. When her best friend and fellow misfit, Kale, drops out of high school, she does too. Determined to find her place in the world, Anokhi buys a one-way plane ticket to Delhi, away from the woman who raised her and away from Kale, the boy she may or may not be a little bit in love with. When Anokhi’s search for answers to her past leads her to South India, she is swept into the magical world of Indian classical dance, which takes her down unexpected paths to discover what—and who—really matters.
337 pages, Paperback
Published January 13, 2026
2 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Mohini Dasari
2 books8 followersMohini Dasari is an Indian American writer and surgeon who grew up in New England but also spent two years as a teenager going to school in India. She trained in Bharatanatyam, the oldest Indian classical dance form, for almost a decade before performing her arangetram, or debut performance, at age nineteen. Mohini has always felt like she was straddling two cultures, growing up in America but identifying with a lot of the cultural and mythological aspects of India and Hinduism. Her study and love of Indian dance, and the stories that are heavily represented in it, inspired many aspects of her debut novel, Shaila’s Dance (2026, Girl Friday Productions).
She lives in Washington state with her family, including her moody 9-pound dog and spirit animal, Hamilton. To learn more, visit her website or find her on Instagram @modawrites
She lives in Washington state with her family, including her moody 9-pound dog and spirit animal, Hamilton. To learn more, visit her website or find her on Instagram @modawrites
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
October 20, 2025
A truly wonderful tale of an adopted girl, Anokhi, who grows up in Idaho and embarks on a journey to trace her roots in India. From the very first page, I was swept into her world and felt like a bystander accompanying her every step of the way. The prose is exquisite, eloquent yet effortless, making it a true page-turner. An incredible achievement for a debut novel, and I eagerly look forward to more works by Dr. Dasari.
September 29, 2025
Shaila’s Dance was a fascinating exploration of India and all the different forms of dance. It was a delightful immersion in Indian culture. I also really enjoyed traveling with Anokhi as she searched for her birth parents.
October 8, 2025
Shaila's Dance is a joy to read. Mohini Dasari is a wonderful storyteller. Her prose is poetic, dreamy and introspective. I couldn't believe how quickly I was drawn into her world. In just the first few pages, I felt like I'd known Anohki like I'd known an old friend.
The narrative voice is standout, leading to an immersive reading experience reminiscent of Ishiguro. It's emotional and philosophical. Every plot point is shown through one of the novel's many rich themes. Dasari writes with steady intentionality.
The plot moves in lockstep with Anokhi's interiority, which we as the reader get deeply intimate with. The beats are stacked with emotional releases. We feel what she feels.
This novel has a lot to say about the external world, too. It's replete with rich descriptions highlighting cross cultural interactions. People, accents, language, relationships, and, of course, dance.
I learned a great deal about India, its culture, its politics and geography. When I finished, I felt like I'd actually been on my own cross continental journey.
Great book, highly recommend. Congratulations to Dasari on a beautiful debut.
The narrative voice is standout, leading to an immersive reading experience reminiscent of Ishiguro. It's emotional and philosophical. Every plot point is shown through one of the novel's many rich themes. Dasari writes with steady intentionality.
The plot moves in lockstep with Anokhi's interiority, which we as the reader get deeply intimate with. The beats are stacked with emotional releases. We feel what she feels.
This novel has a lot to say about the external world, too. It's replete with rich descriptions highlighting cross cultural interactions. People, accents, language, relationships, and, of course, dance.
I learned a great deal about India, its culture, its politics and geography. When I finished, I felt like I'd actually been on my own cross continental journey.
Great book, highly recommend. Congratulations to Dasari on a beautiful debut.
February 9, 2026
I'll start by saying I absolutely LOVED this book, and appreciated how much I learned from Mohini's writing (more on this below), and can't recommend it enough. In a world where we need more diverse books and writers, this book fills that gap fantastically.
I first came across Mohini through Instagram and the book community, and I am so glad that I did. What's amazing about Mohini is that she's welcomed a baby into her home, changed jobs, and had her book publication day all in the last 2 months.I think most of us would be happy with just one of those big life events, let alone all three.
Shaila’s Dance is a YA novel that follows Anokhi, an adopted daughter of Indian origin who has grown up in Idaho. The story is told entirely from Anokhi's perspective, and Mohini captures challenging topics including the idea of growing up knowing she's adopted, but not really understanding her heritage.
The book focuses on Anokhi's recurring dreams, about a woman who dances named Shaila (the book takes its title from this), whose presence pushes Anokhi to question and want to understand her past. This leads her to take a trip to India (originally in search of her birth parents, but also in search of her identity.
After reading this book , I had a better understanding of the nuances of Indian culture/language/meaning that, as a person of Indian origin, I thought I already knew. Simple examples like how many different types of Indian dances there are, the link between words like Kathak (one of the forms of Indian dance) and Katha (meaning storytelling). I knew both words growing up, and the link seems obvious seeing it spelled out now, but I hadn't clocked it!! And more detailed examples like the Natyanjali Dance Festival, a five-day dance festival that takes place in Chidambaram, in honour of one of the Indian gods. These are just some of the many examples I can remember!
Anokhi’s journey also contains a subtle nod to her origin background through the guilt she carries about leaving her adoptive mother, Sasha, behind during her first visit (back) to India since she was born. Many second-generation immigrants know well the balance between wanting to take your own path, set alongside the sense of responsibility towards your family.
As I said, I can't recommend this book enough
I first came across Mohini through Instagram and the book community, and I am so glad that I did. What's amazing about Mohini is that she's welcomed a baby into her home, changed jobs, and had her book publication day all in the last 2 months.I think most of us would be happy with just one of those big life events, let alone all three.
Shaila’s Dance is a YA novel that follows Anokhi, an adopted daughter of Indian origin who has grown up in Idaho. The story is told entirely from Anokhi's perspective, and Mohini captures challenging topics including the idea of growing up knowing she's adopted, but not really understanding her heritage.
The book focuses on Anokhi's recurring dreams, about a woman who dances named Shaila (the book takes its title from this), whose presence pushes Anokhi to question and want to understand her past. This leads her to take a trip to India (originally in search of her birth parents, but also in search of her identity.
After reading this book , I had a better understanding of the nuances of Indian culture/language/meaning that, as a person of Indian origin, I thought I already knew. Simple examples like how many different types of Indian dances there are, the link between words like Kathak (one of the forms of Indian dance) and Katha (meaning storytelling). I knew both words growing up, and the link seems obvious seeing it spelled out now, but I hadn't clocked it!! And more detailed examples like the Natyanjali Dance Festival, a five-day dance festival that takes place in Chidambaram, in honour of one of the Indian gods. These are just some of the many examples I can remember!
Anokhi’s journey also contains a subtle nod to her origin background through the guilt she carries about leaving her adoptive mother, Sasha, behind during her first visit (back) to India since she was born. Many second-generation immigrants know well the balance between wanting to take your own path, set alongside the sense of responsibility towards your family.
As I said, I can't recommend this book enough
January 13, 2026
This story was a pleasant surprise. I had no clue if I would be interested in this story but the plot about an adopted girl who dreams of an Indian dancer that brings her back to India sounded so unique. Anokhi has only memories of her life in Idaho where she has no one who looks like her in her community. She is listless and unfocused. She is a teenager struggling with purpose that eventually causes her to drop out of high school. As a child of Indian immigrants this is horrifying to me but this girl is not living my story. Her story is unique. Even though she was born in India and adopted by a single mom and raised in America she finds no place to be truly “home.” She has no clue who she is.
The story has a bit of magical realism with the presence of an Indian dancer that appears in her mind when she sleeps or mentally drifts off. This dancer is our Shaila and she dances traditional Indian dances that tells a story. The stories guide Anokhi and some times confuse her. The book was like a “choose your own adventure” story but Anokhi kept making the wrong decisions. She figures out she needs to go somewhere but then stays stuck in Idaho working. This part of the story felt purposefully written to be a meander through tedious days as it was all “off-mission.” The mission: Go to India.
The second half which is in India had more wrong decision-making that had me screaming. However, the bad was counter-balanced with the good. Good people with hearts and fate guiding Anokhi to where she needs to be. I did enjoy the journey the book took and the growth of our FMC. I loved learning about Indian dance and the origins in worship and faith. I ended the book wanting more and that is always a good sign. I felt like this book was special and a story that will expand your mind about a world you may not ever see.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to read diversely and support BIPOC authors. If you want to read a book about a young woman’s journey to find their origin and purpose then this is a solid one to choose. I think it’s suitable for middle grade and up. I received this book as an ARC after requesting it from the author.
The story has a bit of magical realism with the presence of an Indian dancer that appears in her mind when she sleeps or mentally drifts off. This dancer is our Shaila and she dances traditional Indian dances that tells a story. The stories guide Anokhi and some times confuse her. The book was like a “choose your own adventure” story but Anokhi kept making the wrong decisions. She figures out she needs to go somewhere but then stays stuck in Idaho working. This part of the story felt purposefully written to be a meander through tedious days as it was all “off-mission.” The mission: Go to India.
The second half which is in India had more wrong decision-making that had me screaming. However, the bad was counter-balanced with the good. Good people with hearts and fate guiding Anokhi to where she needs to be. I did enjoy the journey the book took and the growth of our FMC. I loved learning about Indian dance and the origins in worship and faith. I ended the book wanting more and that is always a good sign. I felt like this book was special and a story that will expand your mind about a world you may not ever see.
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to read diversely and support BIPOC authors. If you want to read a book about a young woman’s journey to find their origin and purpose then this is a solid one to choose. I think it’s suitable for middle grade and up. I received this book as an ARC after requesting it from the author.
November 8, 2025
A poignant coming-of-age story about a young woman caught between two identities, two worlds, and her desperate longing to forge her own path in search of self-understanding. Anokhi’s journey to India to find her birth parents was vivid and deeply immersive. The way Dasari captured the culture, cityscapes, and people felt so natural—you could sense her personal connection in every detail.
Anokhi’s recurring dreams of an Indian dancer served as a haunting reminder of how deeply our heritage lives within us. As an adopted child from the East placed in the Western world, her quiet ache of feeling like an outsider was both moving and heartbreaking. Yet through her pain and discovery, there was such strength—this story felt profoundly empowering, reminding me of the courage it takes to reclaim one’s identity and voice.
I often realize my reading list lacks diversity and doesn’t include enough stories from women of other cultures—this book filled that void beautifully. It reminded me just how vast, complex, and bittersweet the world can be. Anokhi’s bravery was nothing short of inspiring, and by the end, my heart was full and my eyes were brimming with tears.
A truly touching debut by Dasari. I can’t recommend it enough!
Anokhi’s recurring dreams of an Indian dancer served as a haunting reminder of how deeply our heritage lives within us. As an adopted child from the East placed in the Western world, her quiet ache of feeling like an outsider was both moving and heartbreaking. Yet through her pain and discovery, there was such strength—this story felt profoundly empowering, reminding me of the courage it takes to reclaim one’s identity and voice.
I often realize my reading list lacks diversity and doesn’t include enough stories from women of other cultures—this book filled that void beautifully. It reminded me just how vast, complex, and bittersweet the world can be. Anokhi’s bravery was nothing short of inspiring, and by the end, my heart was full and my eyes were brimming with tears.
A truly touching debut by Dasari. I can’t recommend it enough!
November 16, 2025
Dasari’s story about an adopted girl from India who has been haunted by dreams of a classical dancer kept me up late finishing it. The author writes difficult emotion with such beauty and ease — it’s so clear to see that Anokhi, initially, feels so unmoored and alone in a world where she sticks out like a sore thumb. The depth of emotion behind this actually let me to take a break from reading this book for a bit before I — very quickly — dove right back into it.
Despite the support of her adoptive mother, she wants to know more, about her past, her parents, and the world she came from. Her journey of self-discovery to India was probably my favorite part. Despite my Indian heritage, details about Indian classical dance have always been a mystery to me, and Dasari dives into the art with gorgeous prose that is at once informative but also a treat to read. Though the ending was left slightly open-ended and ambiguous, I was reassured about the course of Anokhi’s path in life.
A wonderful debut from an author from whom I can’t wait to read more.
Despite the support of her adoptive mother, she wants to know more, about her past, her parents, and the world she came from. Her journey of self-discovery to India was probably my favorite part. Despite my Indian heritage, details about Indian classical dance have always been a mystery to me, and Dasari dives into the art with gorgeous prose that is at once informative but also a treat to read. Though the ending was left slightly open-ended and ambiguous, I was reassured about the course of Anokhi’s path in life.
A wonderful debut from an author from whom I can’t wait to read more.
October 1, 2025
I feel so lucky to have experienced this novel before the rest of the world does, because it is a beautiful, heartwarming, soul-filling story that I can't wait for others to read.
The literal and metaphorical journey that the reader takes along with Anokhi feels like a fairly-tale, but it's grounded in a gritty reality too. Not sure how this amazing debut author managed it, but she did. The setting includes elements of fate and destiny interwoven with those grounded touches that paint a beautifully unique picture, and while the genre of 'coming of age' feels so apt, the actual experience reading this book felt somehow grander than that. I was transported, and glad of it; there were even twists and turns I didn't think to expect to keep me on my toes after I thought some aspect of the story had concluded, and the tale sticks the landing to the very last. Truly, a delicious treat. I can't recommend it enough.
The literal and metaphorical journey that the reader takes along with Anokhi feels like a fairly-tale, but it's grounded in a gritty reality too. Not sure how this amazing debut author managed it, but she did. The setting includes elements of fate and destiny interwoven with those grounded touches that paint a beautifully unique picture, and while the genre of 'coming of age' feels so apt, the actual experience reading this book felt somehow grander than that. I was transported, and glad of it; there were even twists and turns I didn't think to expect to keep me on my toes after I thought some aspect of the story had concluded, and the tale sticks the landing to the very last. Truly, a delicious treat. I can't recommend it enough.
November 20, 2025
I read "Shaila’s Dance" by Mohini Dasari and really connected with Anokhi’s story. She grew up in Idaho after being adopted from India and always felt like she didn’t quite fit in. Her vivid dreams about a dancer led her to leave her life behind and travel to India. There, she dives into Indian classical dance and starts to understand more about her roots and herself. I liked how the book shows her struggles with identity and how art and culture help her find where she belongs. The descriptions of dance and the emotions felt real and touching to me.
Sometimes the story felt a bit fast or expected, but I enjoyed the way the author painted images with her words. The mix of Anokhi’s quiet daily life and her intense dreams made the story deeper. Overall, it’s a beautiful book about finding your place in the world, especially if you’re curious about heritage and personal growth. I would recommend it to anyone who likes stories about family, culture, and self-discovery.
Sometimes the story felt a bit fast or expected, but I enjoyed the way the author painted images with her words. The mix of Anokhi’s quiet daily life and her intense dreams made the story deeper. Overall, it’s a beautiful book about finding your place in the world, especially if you’re curious about heritage and personal growth. I would recommend it to anyone who likes stories about family, culture, and self-discovery.
December 19, 2025
I feel so lucky to have been able to read an advanced reader copy of Mohini Dasari’s debut novel. From the first few snippets of the synopsis, I was hooked.
As an Indian American, I could relate to so many themes that this book covers. While I’ve never lived in India, I’ve visited many times and inevitably face the constant struggle of wanting to fit in and not appear too American when visiting India, but despite loving my culture and heritage, also not wanting to appear too Indian in my every day life in the US. Anokhi’s journey is all of us.
The writing in this book is filled with such detail and passion, I was able to create such vivid scenes in my mind as I read and could picture myself right there alongside Anokhi during her journey throughout India.
I can’t wait for this book to be officially published, as there are so many more people who need to read this adventure, gain an appreciation for dance through this tale, and relate to Anokhi’s dual life just as I was able to.
As an Indian American, I could relate to so many themes that this book covers. While I’ve never lived in India, I’ve visited many times and inevitably face the constant struggle of wanting to fit in and not appear too American when visiting India, but despite loving my culture and heritage, also not wanting to appear too Indian in my every day life in the US. Anokhi’s journey is all of us.
The writing in this book is filled with such detail and passion, I was able to create such vivid scenes in my mind as I read and could picture myself right there alongside Anokhi during her journey throughout India.
I can’t wait for this book to be officially published, as there are so many more people who need to read this adventure, gain an appreciation for dance through this tale, and relate to Anokhi’s dual life just as I was able to.
September 23, 2025
A beautiful story written by Mohini Dasari! This novel tells a unique and moving coming-of-age story about Anokhi, an adopted girl determined to uncover the truth about her birth parents. As she searches for her roots, readers are invited into the vibrant world of Indian dance and culture, which Dasari weaves into the narrative in a way that is both educational and deeply enriching. Her writing style is graceful and evocative, carrying you to India with lush descriptions drawn from her own travels. The imagery is so vivid that you feel as though you are watching Anokhi’s journey unfold with your own eyes. It’s a heartfelt, beautifully written story of identity, belonging, and discovery—I loved every page!
October 3, 2025
I was swept away from the very first page describing Shaila’s mesmerizing dance. The author’s writing is lush and evocative, capturing both the dreamlike and the deeply human. At its heart is Anokhi, a young woman caught between cultures, longing to understand the visions that haunt her and the roots she has never known. Her journey from small-town Idaho to the vibrant rhythms of India is rendered with tenderness and authenticity. Along the way, I could feel her struggles with identity, the pull of friendship and love, and the healing magic of classical dance. This is a moving and unforgettable novel—one that celebrates culture, resilience, and the universal search for belonging. It stayed with me long after I turned the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I requested Shaila’s Dance on a whim, drawn in by its stunning cover and I’m so glad I did. Anokhi’s journey to uncover her roots is deeply emotional, yet also heartwarming as she begins to put down her own.
The author’s prose is wonderful. The way Indian cultural traditions and heritage are woven into the story is truly beautiful. Following a teenager as she traverses India alone, meeting kind strangers and discovering herself, made me ache for my own solo journey across my birth country.
Shaila’s Dance is layered with emotion, self-discovery, and the transformative power of movement. It’s a reminder that dance is more than performance. It’s a way to lose yourself, to find yourself, to speak without words.
Thank you, GFB, for this book.
The author’s prose is wonderful. The way Indian cultural traditions and heritage are woven into the story is truly beautiful. Following a teenager as she traverses India alone, meeting kind strangers and discovering herself, made me ache for my own solo journey across my birth country.
Shaila’s Dance is layered with emotion, self-discovery, and the transformative power of movement. It’s a reminder that dance is more than performance. It’s a way to lose yourself, to find yourself, to speak without words.
Thank you, GFB, for this book.
January 18, 2026
Anokhi has always seen visions of Shaila, a woman dancing in the classical South Indian style. Growing up adopted in Idaho, Anokhi always felt different, dropping out of high school junior year to travel to India and find her birth parents. The trip through parts of India was described to evoke a real sense of Indian culture. Her travels to Chenni led her to a dance festival where her appreciation of the details in dance, intertwined with Indian mythology, develops. The book takes the reader on a journey of self discovery, while opening up another culture. Recommended. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
September 23, 2025
A beautiful debut book by Mohini Dasari. This is a unique coming of age story following Anokhi in her quest to learn more about her Indian origins and discover who she is. You will be transported to India with Dasari’s rich descriptions based on her own travels. The beautiful details will make you feel like you are seeing everything through Anokhi’s eyes. I loved this journey and I hope we get a sequel!
October 29, 2025
Shaila's Dance is truly a one-of-a-kind novel that takes readers on a heart-tugging journey through belonging, mysticism, courage, and becoming. Dr. Dasari has narrated Anokhi's coming-of-age experience and a first-time trip to the Indian subcontinent so beautifully. I savored this book and the way it made me feel seen in my own upbringing. Woven with the most delicious metaphors, this is a story every dual identity kid, lover of classical dance, and teen needs to read!
September 30, 2025
This is such a beautiful story about an adolescent learning about her sense of self, love, friendship, and adventure. Each time I picked up the book, I couldn't wait to join Anokhi on her journey. I look forward to reading more of Dasari's work.
October 13, 2025
This book is a beautiful exploration of culture, identity, place, and belonging. As someone who is a cultural anthropologist and thinks about culture for a living, I love how Dasari brings culture and identity to life with such rich detail.
January 26, 2026
A beautiful story about an adopted girl entering adulthood and seeking to find her roots in India. Tropes include: adoption, dance, India, and family. It is very well written with lots of inspirational passages throughout the book.
October 5, 2025
writing is gripping and flawless! What a beautiful story that took twists unexpected but such beautiful pathways!! I was immersed in the character and lost track of time! What a beautiful piece!
October 6, 2025
Shaila's Dance is a heart warming, yet gripping story of a young woman's intrigue that eventually drives to action by her recurring dreams. The journey is intricate intertwining of several different communities and cultures.
Would have given 4.5 but no option of rating by fraction. Mohini Dasari has a very fascinating way of engaging the reader with her most expressive way of relating deep emotions.
Would have given 4.5 but no option of rating by fraction. Mohini Dasari has a very fascinating way of engaging the reader with her most expressive way of relating deep emotions.
November 13, 2025
Shaila’s Dance is an impressive first novel that combines the elegance of Indian classical dance with the heartfelt journey of growing up. As Anokhi searches for her birth parents, Mohini Dasari takes readers from a quiet town in Idaho to the lively streets of India. The writing is vivid and draws you in, with each scene unfolding like a dance and revealing themes of identity, belonging, and fate.
Mohini Dasari’s writing feels both warm and clear. The story follows Anokhi’s personal growth, taking us through her hopes, relationships, and discoveries in a genuine way. Every part of the story adds meaning and helps us connect with her experience.
Shaila’s Dance is both imaginative and realistic, showing the beauty of exploring different cultures and the strength found in self-discovery. Mohini Dasari’s first novel is touching, lively, and relatable. It is a story that stays with you long after you finish reading.
Mohini Dasari’s writing feels both warm and clear. The story follows Anokhi’s personal growth, taking us through her hopes, relationships, and discoveries in a genuine way. Every part of the story adds meaning and helps us connect with her experience.
Shaila’s Dance is both imaginative and realistic, showing the beauty of exploring different cultures and the strength found in self-discovery. Mohini Dasari’s first novel is touching, lively, and relatable. It is a story that stays with you long after you finish reading.
October 5, 2025
Writing is gripping and flawless! What a beautiful story that took twists unexpected but such beautiful pathways!! Could. Not. Put. It. Down.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews