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Being an Indian Teenager
About the Book
THREE GIRLS. ONE INSTA PAGE. ZERO CHILL. TEENAGE LIFE IS NOW IN FULL CHAOS MODE. ,/b>
Fourteen-year-old Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy, or Riya in school, is DONE living by everyone else's rules. Her parents speak a different language (not literally ... but basically), her life is chaos and her brain is permanently in ?! mode.
So she and her besties, Sam and Alisa, do what any sensible teen would start an Instagram profile @Being-an-Indian-Teen and hope the universe sends help. Instead, it sends drama, followers, unexpected fame, and a whole lot of 'Wait ... What just happened?'
This is the hilarious, heartfelt story of three girls trying to figure out life, parents, friendships, crush-adjacent situations, and who they actually want to be.
Welcome to teenagerhood-messy, magical and absolutely Insta-worthy.
About the Author
Pooja Marwah is a storyteller, drama queen, content strategist and author-also known as the devil who doesn't wear Prada. She writes the way she fuelled by ideas, coffee and the belief that words can move mountains. Her journey began in a parking lot, where she drafted chapters while waiting for her kids. This book was born during lockdown, when she and her children became reluctant roommates in a real-life sitcom. If you enjoy mischief and honest reflection, you'll feel right at home with her writing.
THREE GIRLS. ONE INSTA PAGE. ZERO CHILL. TEENAGE LIFE IS NOW IN FULL CHAOS MODE. ,/b>
Fourteen-year-old Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy, or Riya in school, is DONE living by everyone else's rules. Her parents speak a different language (not literally ... but basically), her life is chaos and her brain is permanently in ?! mode.
So she and her besties, Sam and Alisa, do what any sensible teen would start an Instagram profile @Being-an-Indian-Teen and hope the universe sends help. Instead, it sends drama, followers, unexpected fame, and a whole lot of 'Wait ... What just happened?'
This is the hilarious, heartfelt story of three girls trying to figure out life, parents, friendships, crush-adjacent situations, and who they actually want to be.
Welcome to teenagerhood-messy, magical and absolutely Insta-worthy.
About the Author
Pooja Marwah is a storyteller, drama queen, content strategist and author-also known as the devil who doesn't wear Prada. She writes the way she fuelled by ideas, coffee and the belief that words can move mountains. Her journey began in a parking lot, where she drafted chapters while waiting for her kids. This book was born during lockdown, when she and her children became reluctant roommates in a real-life sitcom. If you enjoy mischief and honest reflection, you'll feel right at home with her writing.
125 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 27, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
May 3, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah is chaotic, relatable, and surprisingly comforting. From friendships to family pressure to figuring out who you are—it captures that messy phase of life so beautifully.
What I loved most? It feels REAL. No filters, no perfection—just honest teenage emotions wrapped in a fun graphic novel format. 💛
It reminded me of my own teenage days😅
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories with a desi touch, this one is for you.
What I loved most? It feels REAL. No filters, no perfection—just honest teenage emotions wrapped in a fun graphic novel format. 💛
It reminded me of my own teenage days😅
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories with a desi touch, this one is for you.
June 21, 2026
"Being An Indian Teenager" is a coming-of-age graphic novel by Pooja Marwah that follows the life of an Indian teenager, Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy, affectionately called Riya by her friends.
Riya shares a close bond with her two best friends, Sam and Alisha. Like many teenagers, the trio struggles with a common challenge—feeling that their parents do not fully understand what it is like to grow up in today's world. As they navigate adolescence, they face questions about identity, relationships, friendships, family expectations, and personal growth.
The story explores themes of love, friendship, family values and ups and down of growing up in a relatable and engaging manner. Presented as a graphic novel, the book is enhanced by beautiful illustrations that bring the characters and their emotions to life, making it both an enjoyable and visually appealing read.
Overall, it is a warm and relatable story that captures the experiences, dilemmas, and joys of being an Indian teenager.
This Cute book can be enjoyed by everyone.
Riya shares a close bond with her two best friends, Sam and Alisha. Like many teenagers, the trio struggles with a common challenge—feeling that their parents do not fully understand what it is like to grow up in today's world. As they navigate adolescence, they face questions about identity, relationships, friendships, family expectations, and personal growth.
The story explores themes of love, friendship, family values and ups and down of growing up in a relatable and engaging manner. Presented as a graphic novel, the book is enhanced by beautiful illustrations that bring the characters and their emotions to life, making it both an enjoyable and visually appealing read.
Overall, it is a warm and relatable story that captures the experiences, dilemmas, and joys of being an Indian teenager.
This Cute book can be enjoyed by everyone.
June 14, 2026
BEING AN INDIAN TEENGER BY POOJA MARWAH
💌 Graphic novel
💌 Pratilipi Comics/ Westland books
"While teens everywhere share similar anxieties, the issues we indian teens face are on a whole different level. I mean, ever tried talking about privacy with an indian mum?"
The story follows three friends- Alisa, Sam and Riya aka Bhanupriya, on their journey of creating an Instagram account- Being an Indian Teenager and navigating the ocean called Desi teenage life. The book beautifully captures the everyday chaos, confusion, emotions, and pressures of teenage life in India.
The book focuses on situations and feelings that genuinely feel familiar. School pressure, parental expectations, friendships, identity, awkward moments, insecurities, and the constant struggle of figuring yourself out while everyone seems to have an opinion about your life.
The graphic novel format makes the reading experience very engaging. I found myself smiling at several scenes simply because they reflected realities that many Indian teenagers grow up experiencing but are rarely talked about so openly. The misunderstanding between the kid and the parents, the introduction of the grandmother as a neutral party, having a solid support system as friends, having crushes and letting go of them, everything was captured elegantly in just few pages.
"No matter how rich, protected or cool you are, every teen has quirks and complaints. "
The pacing is quick, and because it is a graphic novel, it becomes very easy to finish in one sitting. The book acknowledges confusion, peer pressure, emotional vulnerability, and the difficulty of balancing personal dreams with societal expectations. I appreciated how the author handled these topics in a simple yet meaningful way without making the narrative feel preachy.
One thing I liked was how culturally specific the book feels. Many coming-of-age stories are heavily Westernized, so it was refreshing to read something rooted in Indian teenage experiences, from family dynamics to academic stress and social expectations. It made the story feel much more personal and grounded. Readers who grew up in similar environments will probably find many moments deeply relatable.
💌 Graphic novel
💌 Pratilipi Comics/ Westland books
"While teens everywhere share similar anxieties, the issues we indian teens face are on a whole different level. I mean, ever tried talking about privacy with an indian mum?"
The story follows three friends- Alisa, Sam and Riya aka Bhanupriya, on their journey of creating an Instagram account- Being an Indian Teenager and navigating the ocean called Desi teenage life. The book beautifully captures the everyday chaos, confusion, emotions, and pressures of teenage life in India.
The book focuses on situations and feelings that genuinely feel familiar. School pressure, parental expectations, friendships, identity, awkward moments, insecurities, and the constant struggle of figuring yourself out while everyone seems to have an opinion about your life.
The graphic novel format makes the reading experience very engaging. I found myself smiling at several scenes simply because they reflected realities that many Indian teenagers grow up experiencing but are rarely talked about so openly. The misunderstanding between the kid and the parents, the introduction of the grandmother as a neutral party, having a solid support system as friends, having crushes and letting go of them, everything was captured elegantly in just few pages.
"No matter how rich, protected or cool you are, every teen has quirks and complaints. "
The pacing is quick, and because it is a graphic novel, it becomes very easy to finish in one sitting. The book acknowledges confusion, peer pressure, emotional vulnerability, and the difficulty of balancing personal dreams with societal expectations. I appreciated how the author handled these topics in a simple yet meaningful way without making the narrative feel preachy.
One thing I liked was how culturally specific the book feels. Many coming-of-age stories are heavily Westernized, so it was refreshing to read something rooted in Indian teenage experiences, from family dynamics to academic stress and social expectations. It made the story feel much more personal and grounded. Readers who grew up in similar environments will probably find many moments deeply relatable.
May 5, 2026
"Being an Indian Teenager" by Pooja Marwah is a book about all the struggles that today’s Gen Z (it’s pronounced “zee,” not “zed”) goes through, just like the title suggests. But the unique part about it is that it’s a comic book, and the picture that the author presents here is so relatable that it feels like a true story; many can connect to it immediately.
In the story, we follow fourteen-year-old Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy, or Riya at school, who is extremely frustrated with her family and all the societal norms she has to follow. But no one is there to listen to her, so to voice her needs and desires, she and her two friends, Sam and Alisa, start an Instagram page. They immediately go viral and become the next teen sensation. We then see how they handle their real-life challenges as well as their social lives.
Some of the best things about the book:
Through the characters Riya, Sam, and Alisa, the author presents three different working-class families and how the children from all three struggle in their own ways to fulfill their parents’ wishes.
How all three characters are different from each other, how they each have their own ambitions and goals, and how confident they are, which is inspiring.
“It’s sad that my parents couldn’t relate to my dream. I didn’t want business, science, or arts, but the UN Development Programme—helping end poverty and give everyone the basics of life.”
The positive and negative presentation of social media and AI. The awareness that this story portrays is perfect.
Introducing characters like Ayyama (Riya’s grandma) as a bridge between the two generations and teaching some lessons to both. Also, she’s cool and understanding. When she says to Riya’s stubborn father, “Freedom of expression is important. You must change the way you think,” we all cheer.
Not to forget the beautiful friendships between the three girls and the little budding romance—so sweet, so perfect.
So, if you love any of these topics or want a slightly different taste in reading, then read this comic. It is very good and enjoyable.
In the story, we follow fourteen-year-old Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy, or Riya at school, who is extremely frustrated with her family and all the societal norms she has to follow. But no one is there to listen to her, so to voice her needs and desires, she and her two friends, Sam and Alisa, start an Instagram page. They immediately go viral and become the next teen sensation. We then see how they handle their real-life challenges as well as their social lives.
Some of the best things about the book:
Through the characters Riya, Sam, and Alisa, the author presents three different working-class families and how the children from all three struggle in their own ways to fulfill their parents’ wishes.
How all three characters are different from each other, how they each have their own ambitions and goals, and how confident they are, which is inspiring.
“It’s sad that my parents couldn’t relate to my dream. I didn’t want business, science, or arts, but the UN Development Programme—helping end poverty and give everyone the basics of life.”
The positive and negative presentation of social media and AI. The awareness that this story portrays is perfect.
Introducing characters like Ayyama (Riya’s grandma) as a bridge between the two generations and teaching some lessons to both. Also, she’s cool and understanding. When she says to Riya’s stubborn father, “Freedom of expression is important. You must change the way you think,” we all cheer.
Not to forget the beautiful friendships between the three girls and the little budding romance—so sweet, so perfect.
So, if you love any of these topics or want a slightly different taste in reading, then read this comic. It is very good and enjoyable.
July 1, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager is a graphic novel that captures the excitement, confusion, drama and joy of growing up in modern India. Through the story of Bhanu, Sam and Alisa, the book explores friendship, social media, family expectations, first crushes and the search for identity in a fast-changing world.
At first glance, the story appears to be about three girls who launch an Instagram page and unexpectedly find popularity online. However, beneath the humour and social media adventures lies a thoughtful coming-of-age story about understanding who you are and where you belong. The book explores both the opportunities and pitfalls of digital life, showing how quickly online attention can change a teenager's world.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its portrayal of friendship. The bond between the three girls feels authentic, filled with excitement, misunderstandings, support and laughter. Their interactions never feel artificial, and many readers will recognise aspects of their own teenage friendships in these characters.
The graphic novel also deserves praise for its treatment of social media. It acknowledges the thrill of creating content and building a community while also highlighting concerns about privacy, oversharing and the pressure of online validation.
The artwork is colourful, expressive, engaging and so beautiful! Emotions are communicated beautifully through the illustrations, making the characters feel alive and relatable. The visual storytelling adds warmth and energy to every chapter ♥️
As the story progresses, Bhanu begins to understand her family, her grandmother's influence, her own emotions and what genuine connection means. The story reminds readers that growing up is not just about followers, popularity or romance. It is about learning who you are, appreciating where you come from and finding confidence in your own voice :)
Pooja Marwah successfully captures the reality of being a teenager in contemporary India - messy, funny, emotional and unpredictable.
Absolutely entertaining for younger readers while offering meaningful reflections on friendship, family and self-worth 💯
At first glance, the story appears to be about three girls who launch an Instagram page and unexpectedly find popularity online. However, beneath the humour and social media adventures lies a thoughtful coming-of-age story about understanding who you are and where you belong. The book explores both the opportunities and pitfalls of digital life, showing how quickly online attention can change a teenager's world.
One of the novel's greatest strengths is its portrayal of friendship. The bond between the three girls feels authentic, filled with excitement, misunderstandings, support and laughter. Their interactions never feel artificial, and many readers will recognise aspects of their own teenage friendships in these characters.
The graphic novel also deserves praise for its treatment of social media. It acknowledges the thrill of creating content and building a community while also highlighting concerns about privacy, oversharing and the pressure of online validation.
The artwork is colourful, expressive, engaging and so beautiful! Emotions are communicated beautifully through the illustrations, making the characters feel alive and relatable. The visual storytelling adds warmth and energy to every chapter ♥️
As the story progresses, Bhanu begins to understand her family, her grandmother's influence, her own emotions and what genuine connection means. The story reminds readers that growing up is not just about followers, popularity or romance. It is about learning who you are, appreciating where you come from and finding confidence in your own voice :)
Pooja Marwah successfully captures the reality of being a teenager in contemporary India - messy, funny, emotional and unpredictable.
Absolutely entertaining for younger readers while offering meaningful reflections on friendship, family and self-worth 💯
August 3, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager is basically what happens when hormones, WiFi, and poor decision-making form a business partnership.
One minute everyone’s sending memes.
Next minute someone’s crying, someone’s cancelling friendships, and someone’s posting cryptic Instagram notes like:
“People change :)”
What I loved most is that this book understands today’s generation instead of doing the classic:
“Phones bad. Teenagers doomed.”
It actually captures what growing up online feels like, the pressure to look perfect, friendship drama, hiding things from parents, body image issues, privacy concerns, sudden social media attention, and constantly measuring self-worth through likes and followers.
Which is exhausting because apparently now even confidence needs good engagement.
Riya, Sam, and Alisa honestly felt like every teenage friend group ever. Their conversations and chaos felt extremely natural, and the Instagram-page storyline was peak Gen Z energy.
But beneath all the humour, the book quietly discusses much deeper issues like cyberbullying, online safety, AI misuse, deepfakes, and digital validation addiction.
Basically:
“Haha funny memes.” Five pages later: existential crisis.
And Ayyama was easily my favourite character. She felt like that one elder every teenager deserves, someone who listens before giving a lecture.
Also, the graphic novel format makes the entire experience so much more engaging. The illustrations are expressive, vibrant, and full of personality, which helps balance the heavier themes without making the story feel emotionally exhausting.
This honestly works for both teenagers and adults. Teens will probably feel understood, while adults may finally realize that growing up online is basically surviving public embarrassment in HD quality.
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories, graphic novels, friendship dynamics, social media chaos, desi family moments, and stories that feel incredibly current and relatable, this one is definitely worth checking out.
One minute everyone’s sending memes.
Next minute someone’s crying, someone’s cancelling friendships, and someone’s posting cryptic Instagram notes like:
“People change :)”
What I loved most is that this book understands today’s generation instead of doing the classic:
“Phones bad. Teenagers doomed.”
It actually captures what growing up online feels like, the pressure to look perfect, friendship drama, hiding things from parents, body image issues, privacy concerns, sudden social media attention, and constantly measuring self-worth through likes and followers.
Which is exhausting because apparently now even confidence needs good engagement.
Riya, Sam, and Alisa honestly felt like every teenage friend group ever. Their conversations and chaos felt extremely natural, and the Instagram-page storyline was peak Gen Z energy.
But beneath all the humour, the book quietly discusses much deeper issues like cyberbullying, online safety, AI misuse, deepfakes, and digital validation addiction.
Basically:
“Haha funny memes.” Five pages later: existential crisis.
And Ayyama was easily my favourite character. She felt like that one elder every teenager deserves, someone who listens before giving a lecture.
Also, the graphic novel format makes the entire experience so much more engaging. The illustrations are expressive, vibrant, and full of personality, which helps balance the heavier themes without making the story feel emotionally exhausting.
This honestly works for both teenagers and adults. Teens will probably feel understood, while adults may finally realize that growing up online is basically surviving public embarrassment in HD quality.
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories, graphic novels, friendship dynamics, social media chaos, desi family moments, and stories that feel incredibly current and relatable, this one is definitely worth checking out.
June 24, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager is a vibrant, relatable, and heartwarming graphic novel that perfectly captures the rollercoaster ride of growing up in today's India.
The story follows Riya (Bhanupriya), Sam, and Alisa—three best friends who start an Instagram page called Being an Indian Teenager. What begins as a fun project soon turns into a journey filled with unexpected attention, friendship drama, self-discovery, and plenty of "What just happened?" moments.
What makes this book stand out is how authentically it portrays teenage life. From parental expectations and academic pressure to friendships, crushes, insecurities, and the search for identity, the story reflects experiences that many young readers will instantly recognize. The conversations between teens and parents feel especially real, highlighting the generation gap while also showing the love and concern that exist beneath the misunderstandings.
The friendship between the three girls is one of the book's strongest aspects. Their support for one another through awkward situations, emotional ups and downs, and personal challenges adds warmth and depth to the story. I also loved the inclusion of the grandmother's character, who often brings balance, wisdom, and understanding when things become complicated.
Why I liked this book:-
- Relatable portrayal of Indian teenage life
- Strong friendship and support-system themes
- Beautiful, colorful illustrations
- Honest conversations about family, identity, and social media
- Humorous yet emotionally meaningful storytelling
- Fast-paced and perfect for a quick read
Being an Indian Teenager is a delightful coming-of-age story that reminds readers that confusion, mistakes, and self-discovery are all part of growing up. Whether you're a teenager navigating these experiences or an adult looking back on them, this graphic novel offers plenty of smiles, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments.
The story follows Riya (Bhanupriya), Sam, and Alisa—three best friends who start an Instagram page called Being an Indian Teenager. What begins as a fun project soon turns into a journey filled with unexpected attention, friendship drama, self-discovery, and plenty of "What just happened?" moments.
What makes this book stand out is how authentically it portrays teenage life. From parental expectations and academic pressure to friendships, crushes, insecurities, and the search for identity, the story reflects experiences that many young readers will instantly recognize. The conversations between teens and parents feel especially real, highlighting the generation gap while also showing the love and concern that exist beneath the misunderstandings.
The friendship between the three girls is one of the book's strongest aspects. Their support for one another through awkward situations, emotional ups and downs, and personal challenges adds warmth and depth to the story. I also loved the inclusion of the grandmother's character, who often brings balance, wisdom, and understanding when things become complicated.
Why I liked this book:-
- Relatable portrayal of Indian teenage life
- Strong friendship and support-system themes
- Beautiful, colorful illustrations
- Honest conversations about family, identity, and social media
- Humorous yet emotionally meaningful storytelling
- Fast-paced and perfect for a quick read
Being an Indian Teenager is a delightful coming-of-age story that reminds readers that confusion, mistakes, and self-discovery are all part of growing up. Whether you're a teenager navigating these experiences or an adult looking back on them, this graphic novel offers plenty of smiles, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments.
June 12, 2026
This book felt like sitting with a bunch of teenagers and listening to everything going on inside their heads... the confusion, the excitement, the overthinking, and all those little moments that somehow feel huge when you're fourteen.
I honestly enjoyed this one more than I expected. Riya, Sam, and Alisa felt like actual teenagers. Not perfect. Not overly dramatic. Just girls trying to figure things out while dealing with parents, friendships, social media, crushes, and growing up.
What I liked most was that the story talks about many important things without making them feel like lessons. The generation gap between parents and children, privacy issues in Indian families, the attraction towards the glamour world, confidence, friendship, and even the risks young people face in this AI-driven digital age... all of it fits naturally into the story.
Riya's bond with her grandmother was one of my favorite part here. She felt so understanding..we all have our grandparents like right? She's warm, and surprisingly ahead of her time! Read the book you are gonna know.I also loved watching the relationship between Vaishnavi and Vir grow slowly. It felt sweet and believable.
One line that made me smile was, "Chocolate releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy."
Another line I totally loved was, "Feminism means equality for all - socially, politically and economically."
And this one was simply adorable: "Somewhere between our laughter and casual chats, we missed one truth - we genuinely liked being around each other."
I've read graphic novels where the artwork is nice but the story struggles to connect. That wasn't the case here. The story had heart... and for me, that's what made it memorable.
I honestly enjoyed this one more than I expected. Riya, Sam, and Alisa felt like actual teenagers. Not perfect. Not overly dramatic. Just girls trying to figure things out while dealing with parents, friendships, social media, crushes, and growing up.
What I liked most was that the story talks about many important things without making them feel like lessons. The generation gap between parents and children, privacy issues in Indian families, the attraction towards the glamour world, confidence, friendship, and even the risks young people face in this AI-driven digital age... all of it fits naturally into the story.
Riya's bond with her grandmother was one of my favorite part here. She felt so understanding..we all have our grandparents like right? She's warm, and surprisingly ahead of her time! Read the book you are gonna know.I also loved watching the relationship between Vaishnavi and Vir grow slowly. It felt sweet and believable.
One line that made me smile was, "Chocolate releases endorphins and endorphins make you happy."
Another line I totally loved was, "Feminism means equality for all - socially, politically and economically."
And this one was simply adorable: "Somewhere between our laughter and casual chats, we missed one truth - we genuinely liked being around each other."
I've read graphic novels where the artwork is nice but the story struggles to connect. That wasn't the case here. The story had heart... and for me, that's what made it memorable.
June 16, 2026
If you loved watching 'Never Have I ever' Show on Netflix and loved Devi's Chaos in it and you want to read the same thing in a desi twist and this comic is for you. Being an Indian teenager written by Pooja Marwah .
Overall, Being an Indian Teenager is a very engaging coming-of-age graphic novel written about the realities of being an Indian teenager. The author manages to convey all aspects of their experience, such as going to school, maintaining relationships with peers, having a supportive family background, spending time on social media, discovering new things about themselves, etc., making sure not to make them overshadow each other.
All the issues that are being raised in the book seem highly relevant in today's world, ranging from problems with body image, bullying online, misuse of technology, studying at university, intergenerational conflicts to gaining popularity on the internet.
In general, all the stories depicted throughout the book can be perceived as quite realistic, with the authors portraying believable relationships between the friends. Each of the three girls presents a distinct perspective, and none of them is the focus of all problems that may arise within this story.
Despite the relevance of all the discussed issues, certain parts of the book sound more like message-driven storytelling, which does not always contribute to the development of a compelling narrative. Moreover, some problems are resolved too easily to generate an emotional response. But as it is a YA book that would not be a problem.
In summary, this is an interesting and insightful coming-of-age graphic novel that resonates with teenagers in today’s world, while also giving parents insight into what challenges teenagers face on a daily basis.
Overall, Being an Indian Teenager is a very engaging coming-of-age graphic novel written about the realities of being an Indian teenager. The author manages to convey all aspects of their experience, such as going to school, maintaining relationships with peers, having a supportive family background, spending time on social media, discovering new things about themselves, etc., making sure not to make them overshadow each other.
All the issues that are being raised in the book seem highly relevant in today's world, ranging from problems with body image, bullying online, misuse of technology, studying at university, intergenerational conflicts to gaining popularity on the internet.
In general, all the stories depicted throughout the book can be perceived as quite realistic, with the authors portraying believable relationships between the friends. Each of the three girls presents a distinct perspective, and none of them is the focus of all problems that may arise within this story.
Despite the relevance of all the discussed issues, certain parts of the book sound more like message-driven storytelling, which does not always contribute to the development of a compelling narrative. Moreover, some problems are resolved too easily to generate an emotional response. But as it is a YA book that would not be a problem.
In summary, this is an interesting and insightful coming-of-age graphic novel that resonates with teenagers in today’s world, while also giving parents insight into what challenges teenagers face on a daily basis.
May 5, 2026
If you’ve ever felt the dizzying rush of being fifteen where every "like" feels like a life event and every secret feels like a ticking time bomb this book is going to hit home.
We follow Riya, a relatable 15 year old navigating the highstakes world of teenagehood alongside her best friends, Sam and Alisa. The trio decides to launch a secret Instagram account that explodes into overnight viral fame. But as any digital native knows, "going viral" is a double-edged sword.
What follows is a whirlwind of:
Social Media Drama: The thin line between privacy and oversharing.
Real-World Issues: Navigating body shaming and the pitfalls of technology.
Matters of the Heart: A sweet subplot involving Viru that will have you rooting for Riya’s happiness.
What makes this graphic novel truly special isn’t just the "magnificent" illustrations; it’s the wisdom tucked between the panels. The character of Ayyama serves as the story's moral compass, offering grounded advice that challenges the "fitting in" culture.
The writing doesn't try to "fix" the chaos of being a teenager; it simply validates it. Whether you are currently in the thick of it or looking back at your younger self with a smile, the emotions feel authentic, messy, and wonderfully real.
"A beautiful blend of humor and heart. It’s a cautionary tale for the Instagram generation, wrapped in a heartwarming story about growing up and finding closure."
A must-read for anyone who appreciates sharp wit, gorgeous art, and a story that isn't afraid to ask: Why are we chasing these likes?
We follow Riya, a relatable 15 year old navigating the highstakes world of teenagehood alongside her best friends, Sam and Alisa. The trio decides to launch a secret Instagram account that explodes into overnight viral fame. But as any digital native knows, "going viral" is a double-edged sword.
What follows is a whirlwind of:
Social Media Drama: The thin line between privacy and oversharing.
Real-World Issues: Navigating body shaming and the pitfalls of technology.
Matters of the Heart: A sweet subplot involving Viru that will have you rooting for Riya’s happiness.
What makes this graphic novel truly special isn’t just the "magnificent" illustrations; it’s the wisdom tucked between the panels. The character of Ayyama serves as the story's moral compass, offering grounded advice that challenges the "fitting in" culture.
The writing doesn't try to "fix" the chaos of being a teenager; it simply validates it. Whether you are currently in the thick of it or looking back at your younger self with a smile, the emotions feel authentic, messy, and wonderfully real.
"A beautiful blend of humor and heart. It’s a cautionary tale for the Instagram generation, wrapped in a heartwarming story about growing up and finding closure."
A must-read for anyone who appreciates sharp wit, gorgeous art, and a story that isn't afraid to ask: Why are we chasing these likes?
May 11, 2026
What does it actually feel like to be a teenager in the age of Instagram, expectations, body image issues, and constant pressure to “fit in”? Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah explores exactly that through the story of Riya, Sam, and Alisa they are three teenagers trying to navigate friendship, family expectations, social media fame, and their own identities. Told in the form of a graphic novel, the story feels vibrant, relatable, and incredibly real, balancing humor and chaos with meaningful conversations about privacy, self-worth, and growing up in a hyper-online generation.
What I loved most is how authentic the emotions felt. The book doesn’t try to “solve” teenage confusion... it simply understands it. Riya’s frustration with societal expectations, the pressure to perform, and the emotional rollercoaster of social media felt painfully relatable even as someone looking back at those years now. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and bring every emotion to life beautifully. I also adored Ayyama’s character because she acts as this warm bridge between generations, offering wisdom without sounding preachy. And honestly? The friendship between the girls and the tiny romance moments were SO cute 😭
If you enjoy graphic novels filled with heart, humor, friendship, emotional honesty, and conversations about social media culture, this is definitely worth reading. Perfect for teens, young adults, and honestly anyone who wants a nostalgic reminder of how messy, dramatic, confusing, and beautiful growing up can be.
What I loved most is how authentic the emotions felt. The book doesn’t try to “solve” teenage confusion... it simply understands it. Riya’s frustration with societal expectations, the pressure to perform, and the emotional rollercoaster of social media felt painfully relatable even as someone looking back at those years now. The illustrations are absolutely gorgeous and bring every emotion to life beautifully. I also adored Ayyama’s character because she acts as this warm bridge between generations, offering wisdom without sounding preachy. And honestly? The friendship between the girls and the tiny romance moments were SO cute 😭
If you enjoy graphic novels filled with heart, humor, friendship, emotional honesty, and conversations about social media culture, this is definitely worth reading. Perfect for teens, young adults, and honestly anyone who wants a nostalgic reminder of how messy, dramatic, confusing, and beautiful growing up can be.
June 21, 2026
picked up Being an Indian Teenager expecting a fun, light-hearted story about school life and social media🤳
What I got was a surprisingly thoughtful and relatable coming-of-age story wrapped in gorgeous illustrations🥹
Following Riya, Sam, and Alisa as they launch an Instagram page and accidentally invite chaos into their lives, the book perfectly captures the confusion of growing up in a world where everyone seems to have an opinion about who you should be🤷♀️
Between family drama, friendship chaos, school pressure, crushes, awkward moments, and the constant struggle of figuring yourself out, I found myself smiling at how familiar so many situations felt.
What I loved most was that beneath all the humor, the story explores important topics like peer pressure, online safety, self-image, and parental expectations without ever feeling preachy.
It understands that being a teenager is equal parts messy, hilarious, overwhelming, and magical.
And can we talk about Ayyama? 🥹 Her wisdom, warmth, and gentle guidance made her one of my favorite characters in the entire book.
My favourite lines are:
🖤"Friendship brings out the best in a person"
🖤"Giving space to the next generation is very important."
🖤"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
Funny, heartfelt, and incredibly relatable, Being an Indian Teenager feels like scrolling through your old social-media posts and cringing... but also smiling because you survived it💛
What I got was a surprisingly thoughtful and relatable coming-of-age story wrapped in gorgeous illustrations🥹
Following Riya, Sam, and Alisa as they launch an Instagram page and accidentally invite chaos into their lives, the book perfectly captures the confusion of growing up in a world where everyone seems to have an opinion about who you should be🤷♀️
Between family drama, friendship chaos, school pressure, crushes, awkward moments, and the constant struggle of figuring yourself out, I found myself smiling at how familiar so many situations felt.
What I loved most was that beneath all the humor, the story explores important topics like peer pressure, online safety, self-image, and parental expectations without ever feeling preachy.
It understands that being a teenager is equal parts messy, hilarious, overwhelming, and magical.
And can we talk about Ayyama? 🥹 Her wisdom, warmth, and gentle guidance made her one of my favorite characters in the entire book.
My favourite lines are:
🖤"Friendship brings out the best in a person"
🖤"Giving space to the next generation is very important."
🖤"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
Funny, heartfelt, and incredibly relatable, Being an Indian Teenager feels like scrolling through your old social-media posts and cringing... but also smiling because you survived it💛
June 16, 2026
i was really excited to read this book because the title felt so relatable and it turned out to be a fun and comforting read.
Riya, Sam and Alisa felt like teenagers. They overthink things make mistakes hide stuff from their parents get caught up in social media drama and find their way, through it. I liked that the story didn't try to make them perfect.
My favourite character was Ayyama. She was sweet, wise and understanding. The bond she shared with Riya felt like something every teenager would want. Ayyama listened first. Didn't judge. Her scenes added warmth to the story.
I also liked that the book talks about friendships, family expectations, body image, online pressure and growing up. It didn't feel like a lecture. The graphic novel format and illustrations made it enjoyable. I read it quickly.
What stayed with me is that this book accepts that being a teenager is messy and confusing. You won't always have the answers.. Having good friends and people who understand you can make things easier.
This book is a fun read for teenagers. It might also remind adults what growing up felt like.
✨ Quotes from the book:
"Friendship brings out the best in a person."
"Your generation has the strangest words."
"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
"Dress as you like, but ask why. If it is just to fit in, where does it stop? Today it's a dress tomorrow it could be a drink."
Riya, Sam and Alisa felt like teenagers. They overthink things make mistakes hide stuff from their parents get caught up in social media drama and find their way, through it. I liked that the story didn't try to make them perfect.
My favourite character was Ayyama. She was sweet, wise and understanding. The bond she shared with Riya felt like something every teenager would want. Ayyama listened first. Didn't judge. Her scenes added warmth to the story.
I also liked that the book talks about friendships, family expectations, body image, online pressure and growing up. It didn't feel like a lecture. The graphic novel format and illustrations made it enjoyable. I read it quickly.
What stayed with me is that this book accepts that being a teenager is messy and confusing. You won't always have the answers.. Having good friends and people who understand you can make things easier.
This book is a fun read for teenagers. It might also remind adults what growing up felt like.
✨ Quotes from the book:
"Friendship brings out the best in a person."
"Your generation has the strangest words."
"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
"Dress as you like, but ask why. If it is just to fit in, where does it stop? Today it's a dress tomorrow it could be a drink."
September 26, 2026
There are books that entertain you, and then there are books that make you feel seen. Being An Indian Teenager is exactly that kind of read. From friendships and family drama to social media chaos and endless overthinking, every page feels surprisingly familiar.
WE REALISED THAT NO MATTER HOW RICH,
PROTECTED OR COOL YOU ARE, EVERY TEEN HAS QUIRKS AND COMPLAINTS. INSPIRED, SAM AND ALISA SUGGESTED WE LIST OURS. AND JUST LIKE THAT, THE EPIC INDIAN-TEEN LIST WAS BORN
That one line perfectly captures the spirit of the story. It reminds us that every teenager, no matter their background, deals with insecurities, embarrassing moments, strict parents, confusing friendships and dreams that feel bigger than the world.
I loved how the graphic novel format keeps the story fun while quietly touching on real emotions. Riya, Sam and Alisa don't feel like fictional characters but like friends you would happily spend an afternoon with. Their conversations, excitement and little misadventures made me smile more than once.
The illustrations add so much personality, making every emotion more expressive and every scene more memorable. It's a quick read, but the warmth of the story stays with you even after you turn the last page.
What I enjoyed the most is that the book never tries too hard to be perfect. It embraces the awkwardness, the chaos and the beautiful mess that comes with growing up in an Indian household. It feels honest, comforting and incredibly relatable
WE REALISED THAT NO MATTER HOW RICH,
PROTECTED OR COOL YOU ARE, EVERY TEEN HAS QUIRKS AND COMPLAINTS. INSPIRED, SAM AND ALISA SUGGESTED WE LIST OURS. AND JUST LIKE THAT, THE EPIC INDIAN-TEEN LIST WAS BORN
That one line perfectly captures the spirit of the story. It reminds us that every teenager, no matter their background, deals with insecurities, embarrassing moments, strict parents, confusing friendships and dreams that feel bigger than the world.
I loved how the graphic novel format keeps the story fun while quietly touching on real emotions. Riya, Sam and Alisa don't feel like fictional characters but like friends you would happily spend an afternoon with. Their conversations, excitement and little misadventures made me smile more than once.
The illustrations add so much personality, making every emotion more expressive and every scene more memorable. It's a quick read, but the warmth of the story stays with you even after you turn the last page.
What I enjoyed the most is that the book never tries too hard to be perfect. It embraces the awkwardness, the chaos and the beautiful mess that comes with growing up in an Indian household. It feels honest, comforting and incredibly relatable
April 18, 2026
Another graphic novel, another GEM!! A truly well written, beautiful and thought provoking read.
We have Riya, a 15 year old teen who's in her "ready to take onto the world" phase with her besties, Sam and Alisa.
The book explores relatable issues like importance of privacy,security and social media through their journey. I really loved Ayyama's character because she was so full of wisdom, for example " Dress as you like, but ask why. If it is just to fit in, where does it stop? Today it's a dress tomorrow it could be a drink. " Very well said.
Oh and Viru? I was rooting for him and Riya since the beginning. 🫶
The trio start an Instagram account hidden from their parents which goes viral overnight. But with this came a lot of DRAMA. Apart from this the novel also tackles topics of body shaming and misuse of technology as well as evidently shown by this quote " So pause before chasing likes or oversharing online. You never know who's watching. " This is such a powerful message, especially in today's world.
As the story unfolds, Riya along with her friends understand the gravity of these things and we see a good character development. The novel ends on a heartwarming note with Riya also finding closure in the matters of heart.
I loved how apt the illustrations were and I only have one word for them MAGNIFICENT.
Overall a must read for anyone who appreciates blend of humor, wisdom and relatable teen experiences.
We have Riya, a 15 year old teen who's in her "ready to take onto the world" phase with her besties, Sam and Alisa.
The book explores relatable issues like importance of privacy,security and social media through their journey. I really loved Ayyama's character because she was so full of wisdom, for example " Dress as you like, but ask why. If it is just to fit in, where does it stop? Today it's a dress tomorrow it could be a drink. " Very well said.
Oh and Viru? I was rooting for him and Riya since the beginning. 🫶
The trio start an Instagram account hidden from their parents which goes viral overnight. But with this came a lot of DRAMA. Apart from this the novel also tackles topics of body shaming and misuse of technology as well as evidently shown by this quote " So pause before chasing likes or oversharing online. You never know who's watching. " This is such a powerful message, especially in today's world.
As the story unfolds, Riya along with her friends understand the gravity of these things and we see a good character development. The novel ends on a heartwarming note with Riya also finding closure in the matters of heart.
I loved how apt the illustrations were and I only have one word for them MAGNIFICENT.
Overall a must read for anyone who appreciates blend of humor, wisdom and relatable teen experiences.
April 20, 2026
I have always had a soft spot for graphic novels, the way they blend visuals with storytelling makes everything feel more alive. And even though I am past my teenage years now, this book pulled me right back into that phase in the most unexpected way.
Reading Riya’s story felt like reopening a part of my own life I hadn’t visited in a while. The confusion, the overthinking, the tiny things that felt huge, it all came rushing back. I found myself smiling at moments that once would have stressed me out and thinking, wow, I really used to feel exactly like this. There is something strangely comforting about revisiting that version of yourself with a little more clarity and distance.
Riya, along with Sam and Alisa, brings out that messy teenage energy so well. The Instagram page, the drama, the sudden attention, it all feels chaotic but also so true to how we experience life at that age. It is exaggerated in parts, but the emotions underneath are completely real.
What I appreciated most is that the story does not try to fix teenage confusion. It just lets it exist. And as someone who’s already moved past that phase, it felt good to go through it again this time not as someone living it, but as someone understanding it better.
Reading Riya’s story felt like reopening a part of my own life I hadn’t visited in a while. The confusion, the overthinking, the tiny things that felt huge, it all came rushing back. I found myself smiling at moments that once would have stressed me out and thinking, wow, I really used to feel exactly like this. There is something strangely comforting about revisiting that version of yourself with a little more clarity and distance.
Riya, along with Sam and Alisa, brings out that messy teenage energy so well. The Instagram page, the drama, the sudden attention, it all feels chaotic but also so true to how we experience life at that age. It is exaggerated in parts, but the emotions underneath are completely real.
What I appreciated most is that the story does not try to fix teenage confusion. It just lets it exist. And as someone who’s already moved past that phase, it felt good to go through it again this time not as someone living it, but as someone understanding it better.
June 4, 2026
The graphic novel follows the chaotic, vibrant, and incredibly relatable life of fifteen-year-old Bhanupriya ,Vaishnavi Puttuswamy or Riya in school and her besties, Sam and Alisa. Navigating high school under the constant gaze of overprotective parents, strict rules, and nosy neighbors like Kamala Aunty, the girls decide to do what any modern teen would do: start an Instagram profile @Being-an-Indian-Teen and hope the universe sends help. What starts as a creative outlet to vent about their daily middle-class struggles, school-bus diaries, and societal expectations unexpectedly turns into a spiral of followers, unexpected fame, and a whole lot of drama.
This book is an absolute visual and emotional treat! The art style is stunning—striking the perfect balance between a cinematic atmosphere and the fast-paced world of modern social media. It captures the exact heart-stopping anxiety of hitting 'publish' on a personal project, the rush of watching follower counts climb, and the sheer comfort of female friendships. What I loved most is how accurately it portrays the gap between parents' intentions and teens' emotions, touching upon deeper themes like body-shaming, colorism, and finding your true identity while staying rooted in your culture.
This book is an absolute visual and emotional treat! The art style is stunning—striking the perfect balance between a cinematic atmosphere and the fast-paced world of modern social media. It captures the exact heart-stopping anxiety of hitting 'publish' on a personal project, the rush of watching follower counts climb, and the sheer comfort of female friendships. What I loved most is how accurately it portrays the gap between parents' intentions and teens' emotions, touching upon deeper themes like body-shaming, colorism, and finding your true identity while staying rooted in your culture.
May 12, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah beautifully captures the chaos, emotions, and reality of teenage life in India. The story of Riya, Alisha, and Sameera feels honest and relatable, covering everything from family pressure and friendships to social media, privacy, body image, and self-discovery.
What I loved most about this book was how nostalgic it felt. It reminded me of real teenage experiences, the restrictions, school drama, peer pressure, fear of parents finding out things, and the struggle of balancing freedom with responsibilities. The characters felt natural, and their conversations reflected what many teenagers actually think and feel.
The book also sends an important message about online safety and awareness. Topics like cyberbullying, deepfakes, AI face-swapping, and misuse of social media are explained in a meaningful way, making the story modern and relevant. I especially appreciated how the novel encouraged better communication between parents and teenagers instead of constant judgment and pressure.
Overall, this is an engaging and meaningful read that both teenagers and parents can learn from.
What I loved most about this book was how nostalgic it felt. It reminded me of real teenage experiences, the restrictions, school drama, peer pressure, fear of parents finding out things, and the struggle of balancing freedom with responsibilities. The characters felt natural, and their conversations reflected what many teenagers actually think and feel.
The book also sends an important message about online safety and awareness. Topics like cyberbullying, deepfakes, AI face-swapping, and misuse of social media are explained in a meaningful way, making the story modern and relevant. I especially appreciated how the novel encouraged better communication between parents and teenagers instead of constant judgment and pressure.
Overall, this is an engaging and meaningful read that both teenagers and parents can learn from.
May 29, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah is a refreshingly relatable and entertaining read that perfectly captures the chaos of teenage life in modern India. The story feels fun, authentic and full of personality, especially through the friendships, family moments and social media drama that make the narrative so engaging. The writing is light, witty and easy to connect with, making it a quick yet memorable read for both teenagers and adults looking back at those years fondly.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is definitely its visual presentation. The graphics, doodles and creative layouts add so much energy to the storytelling and make every page feel lively and interactive. The illustrations blend beautifully with the narrative and genuinely enhance the reading experience instead of simply decorating the pages. It gives the book a fresh, modern and very “teenager-coded” vibe that stands out immediately.
Overall, this is a heartfelt and enjoyable coming-of-age story with humour, emotion and visually stunning presentation. A wonderful pick for readers who enjoy relatable contemporary fiction with creative graphic elements.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is definitely its visual presentation. The graphics, doodles and creative layouts add so much energy to the storytelling and make every page feel lively and interactive. The illustrations blend beautifully with the narrative and genuinely enhance the reading experience instead of simply decorating the pages. It gives the book a fresh, modern and very “teenager-coded” vibe that stands out immediately.
Overall, this is a heartfelt and enjoyable coming-of-age story with humour, emotion and visually stunning presentation. A wonderful pick for readers who enjoy relatable contemporary fiction with creative graphic elements.
June 3, 2026
What's a book that made you miss being a teenager?
"Friendship brings out the best in a person."
And I think that's exactly what this book captures so well.
I came for the teenage drama, friendship chaos, and Instagram adventures, but stayed for the heart. I loved watching Riya, Sam, and Alisa navigate growing up, family expectations, misunderstandings, and all the messy moments that come with figuring yourself out.
One of my favorite parts was seeing the parents evolve alongside the girls. But my absolute favorite scenes were with Riya's grandmother.
"Your generation has the strangest words,"
and
"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
She brought so much warmth, wisdom, and love to the story.
Funny, relatable, chaotic, and heartfelt, this is a wonderful reminder that growing up is messy, but it's a lot easier when you have good friends by your side.
{indian teen fiction, friendship, coming of age, family relationships, school life, middle grade fiction, relatable characters, friendship goals, contemporary fiction, book review}
"Friendship brings out the best in a person."
And I think that's exactly what this book captures so well.
I came for the teenage drama, friendship chaos, and Instagram adventures, but stayed for the heart. I loved watching Riya, Sam, and Alisa navigate growing up, family expectations, misunderstandings, and all the messy moments that come with figuring yourself out.
One of my favorite parts was seeing the parents evolve alongside the girls. But my absolute favorite scenes were with Riya's grandmother.
"Your generation has the strangest words,"
and
"Don't talk about money in front of a child. Her job is to earn the chance. Ours is to make it happen. And we will."
She brought so much warmth, wisdom, and love to the story.
Funny, relatable, chaotic, and heartfelt, this is a wonderful reminder that growing up is messy, but it's a lot easier when you have good friends by your side.
{indian teen fiction, friendship, coming of age, family relationships, school life, middle grade fiction, relatable characters, friendship goals, contemporary fiction, book review}
June 21, 2026
This was such a fun, relatable, and entertaining read! The book perfectly captures the rollercoaster that is adolescence the confusion, the excitement, the awkward moments, the friendships, and all the little dramas that somehow feel like the end of the world when you're a teenager.
What I enjoyed most was the authenticity of the characters. Their conversations, emotions, and experiences felt genuine, making it easy to connect with them and root for them throughout their journey. The friendship dynamics were particularly heartwarming and added so much charm to the story.
The narrative is packed with humor, but beneath the laughter, it also touches on identity, growing up, family expectations, and the search for belonging. It beautifully captures that phase of life when you're trying to figure out who you are while the world keeps telling you who you should be.
Lighthearted, engaging, and full of youthful energy, this is a delightful read that will resonate with young readers and also leave adults feeling nostalgic about their own teenage years. A perfect coming-of-age story filled with friendship, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments.
What I enjoyed most was the authenticity of the characters. Their conversations, emotions, and experiences felt genuine, making it easy to connect with them and root for them throughout their journey. The friendship dynamics were particularly heartwarming and added so much charm to the story.
The narrative is packed with humor, but beneath the laughter, it also touches on identity, growing up, family expectations, and the search for belonging. It beautifully captures that phase of life when you're trying to figure out who you are while the world keeps telling you who you should be.
Lighthearted, engaging, and full of youthful energy, this is a delightful read that will resonate with young readers and also leave adults feeling nostalgic about their own teenage years. A perfect coming-of-age story filled with friendship, laughter, and plenty of memorable moments.
May 8, 2026
The story begins with 3 friends , Riya , Sam and Alisa .
The thinking of them vs their families are very different . Where their families put alot of restrictions on them like not to reveal clothes , no Netflix , only studies . But the idea of these 3 girls is different . They decided to create an Instagram account of own where they will share their problems and listens to everyone else so that all can figure out once for a good result .
One of my favorite characters in the book is played by ayyama , grandmother of Riya ,, she is so different from the parents of her Riya . Bold , happy , positive , a woman who understand the new generation .
She is like the bigger supporter to Riya .
The books talks about so many good perspectives , finding a right guy to fall in love for Riya to understand every body type is differ for Sam .
The story is so heartwarming that you will not kept down the book before finishing it .
It’s fun to read , it is giggly , it definitely connects today generation .
The thinking of them vs their families are very different . Where their families put alot of restrictions on them like not to reveal clothes , no Netflix , only studies . But the idea of these 3 girls is different . They decided to create an Instagram account of own where they will share their problems and listens to everyone else so that all can figure out once for a good result .
One of my favorite characters in the book is played by ayyama , grandmother of Riya ,, she is so different from the parents of her Riya . Bold , happy , positive , a woman who understand the new generation .
She is like the bigger supporter to Riya .
The books talks about so many good perspectives , finding a right guy to fall in love for Riya to understand every body type is differ for Sam .
The story is so heartwarming that you will not kept down the book before finishing it .
It’s fun to read , it is giggly , it definitely connects today generation .
May 21, 2026
"Being an Indian Teenager" is more than just a funny teenage story - it also gives practical advice that many young readers can relate to.
The book honestly talks about real-life struggles teenagers face every day, from social media addiction to peer pressure and family expectations.
One of the strongest parts of the book is how it balances entertainment with useful life lessons in a natural and relatable way.
The story highlights common rules teens often hear, like staying away from alcohol and cigarettes, limiting Instagram use, focusing on studies instead of Netflix, avoiding unhealthy food, and not blindly following friends just to fit in etc.
Instead of sounding preachy, the book explains why these things matter and how they affect teenagers’ lives.
Riya, Sam, and Alisa make the story lively and realistic, showing both mistakes and growth.
Pooja Marwah’s writing feels simple, fresh, and engaging. Overall, this book is entertaining while also giving meaningful lessons for today’s teenagers and even their parents. Happy Reading, Happy Learning.
The book honestly talks about real-life struggles teenagers face every day, from social media addiction to peer pressure and family expectations.
One of the strongest parts of the book is how it balances entertainment with useful life lessons in a natural and relatable way.
The story highlights common rules teens often hear, like staying away from alcohol and cigarettes, limiting Instagram use, focusing on studies instead of Netflix, avoiding unhealthy food, and not blindly following friends just to fit in etc.
Instead of sounding preachy, the book explains why these things matter and how they affect teenagers’ lives.
Riya, Sam, and Alisa make the story lively and realistic, showing both mistakes and growth.
Pooja Marwah’s writing feels simple, fresh, and engaging. Overall, this book is entertaining while also giving meaningful lessons for today’s teenagers and even their parents. Happy Reading, Happy Learning.
May 23, 2026
Being An Indian Teenager is SUCH a fun, chaotic, and super relatable ride. I had the biggest smile while reading this! From the very first page, it pulls you straight into Riya’s world, and honestly, it feels like scrolling through the most entertaining Insta feed ever.
Riya, Sam, and Alisa are an iconic trio. Their friendship, drama, and everyday teenage struggles feel so real and hilarious at the same time. The whole idea of starting an Instagram page and suddenly dealing with fame, confusion, and “what is happening?!” moments is just so Gen Z and perfectly done.
And can we talk about the illustrations? Absolutely gorgeous! Bright, colorful, and full of life, they make the story even more engaging and addictive.
What I loved most is how the book balances humor with heart. It talks about parents, identity, friendships, and growing up, but in such a light, honest, and entertaining way.
This is the kind of book you fly through in one sitting. Perfect for teens (and honestly, anyone who remembers the chaos of being one). So vibrant, so real, and SO much fun!
Riya, Sam, and Alisa are an iconic trio. Their friendship, drama, and everyday teenage struggles feel so real and hilarious at the same time. The whole idea of starting an Instagram page and suddenly dealing with fame, confusion, and “what is happening?!” moments is just so Gen Z and perfectly done.
And can we talk about the illustrations? Absolutely gorgeous! Bright, colorful, and full of life, they make the story even more engaging and addictive.
What I loved most is how the book balances humor with heart. It talks about parents, identity, friendships, and growing up, but in such a light, honest, and entertaining way.
This is the kind of book you fly through in one sitting. Perfect for teens (and honestly, anyone who remembers the chaos of being one). So vibrant, so real, and SO much fun!
April 22, 2026
If you’re looking for a read that is messy and 100% relatable, Being an Indian Teen is it.
The story follows Bhanupriya Vaishnavi Puttuswamy as she and her besties launch an Instagram page that accidentally blows up. What starts as a way to vent about teenage life turns into a whirlwind of drama, followers, and unexpected fame.
What I loved:
-It has these incredible throwback vibes to Archie Comics with slick graphics and illustrations that make the pages pop.
-The characters have serious style, and the dialogue is genuinely funny.
-The friendship between Riya, Sam, and Alisa is the soul of the book. It’s wholesome, supportive, and has zero "ick" factor.
-Underneath the "lit" exterior, there’s some really solid guidance on the perils of social media and the pressure to be perfect online.
It’s rare to find a book that understands the teenage brain this well. It’s fresh and it’s educational without being preachy..
August 3, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah is as chaotic and simple as it's tittle.
Teenage era is something everyone has experienced once in thier life ; those first crushes, i love yous, feelings, emotions, friendships, hurdles, lessons and what not !
This story is that only, 3 girls completely fed up with their parents not able to understand them, all of them comes from different backgrounds, culture, upbringing and enviornment but still their problems, or thier pain are similiar.
These three coming together, to solve a major issue that is parents not understanding their children.
I love how author addressed the most underrated issue with such a gentleness and honesty.
it's humorous, heart to heart conversation and the illustrations made the book more special.
if you're someone loves teenage books then it's for you ! it's worth your time !
Teenage era is something everyone has experienced once in thier life ; those first crushes, i love yous, feelings, emotions, friendships, hurdles, lessons and what not !
This story is that only, 3 girls completely fed up with their parents not able to understand them, all of them comes from different backgrounds, culture, upbringing and enviornment but still their problems, or thier pain are similiar.
These three coming together, to solve a major issue that is parents not understanding their children.
I love how author addressed the most underrated issue with such a gentleness and honesty.
it's humorous, heart to heart conversation and the illustrations made the book more special.
if you're someone loves teenage books then it's for you ! it's worth your time !
May 20, 2026
Being an Indian Teenager by Pooja Marwah was such a wholesome. This beautiful graphic novel revolves around three teenage girls - Riya, Alisha, and Sam and how they navigate their teenage lives, friendships, family expectations, social media pressure, insecurities, crushes, and the chaotic process of growing up.
What I loved the most about this book is how realistic everything felt. It was emotional, awkward, funny, and comforting, all at the same time. Moreover, the illustrations added so much warmth and personality to the story.
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories with lovable characters, heartwarming friendships, and beautiful illustrations, this novel is definitely worth picking up.
What I loved the most about this book is how realistic everything felt. It was emotional, awkward, funny, and comforting, all at the same time. Moreover, the illustrations added so much warmth and personality to the story.
If you enjoy coming-of-age stories with lovable characters, heartwarming friendships, and beautiful illustrations, this novel is definitely worth picking up.
May 30, 2026
This gorgeous illustrated graphic novel captures the emotional world of teenagers with honesty and warmth. Through themes of friendship, family, self-image, and social media, it explores struggles that many youngsters silently navigate.
One of the most memorable aspects is the grandmother’s character, who shows that compassion often reaches children more effectively than strictness. Through her gentle guidance, Riya learns many important lessons such that that clothes should be chosen for comfort and self-expression rather than to fit in with others.
The story also highlights the importance of evolving with time, especially in understanding younger generations and the role social media can play in spreading awareness and creating conversations around difficult topics. Another powerful thread is its portrayal of children who feel neglected by their parents, sensitively showing how loneliness and lack of emotional support can affect their mental well-being.
At its heart, however, this is a story about friendship and how having people who listen, understand, and stand by you can make all the difference during the challenging teenage years.
One of the most memorable aspects is the grandmother’s character, who shows that compassion often reaches children more effectively than strictness. Through her gentle guidance, Riya learns many important lessons such that that clothes should be chosen for comfort and self-expression rather than to fit in with others.
The story also highlights the importance of evolving with time, especially in understanding younger generations and the role social media can play in spreading awareness and creating conversations around difficult topics. Another powerful thread is its portrayal of children who feel neglected by their parents, sensitively showing how loneliness and lack of emotional support can affect their mental well-being.
At its heart, however, this is a story about friendship and how having people who listen, understand, and stand by you can make all the difference during the challenging teenage years.
August 3, 2026
Isn't teenage life is all about friendships, family drama, first love, self discovery.
This book captures the best emotions of being a teenager and constant struggles faces by them be it fitting in, managing their emotions. The characters feel very relatable to today's generation but also partly offers nostalgic moments. Some books tells a story but one helps you navigate through their emotions. It is a graphic novel which perfectly balances the story line and the vibrant sketches.
Highly recommend this for parents which gives you more info about your teenagers at home.
This book captures the best emotions of being a teenager and constant struggles faces by them be it fitting in, managing their emotions. The characters feel very relatable to today's generation but also partly offers nostalgic moments. Some books tells a story but one helps you navigate through their emotions. It is a graphic novel which perfectly balances the story line and the vibrant sketches.
Highly recommend this for parents which gives you more info about your teenagers at home.
April 24, 2026
Loved this
Reading Being an Indian Teenager felt so special to me because this was the first physical comic book I’ve ever read, and I absolutely loved it. The story felt so real, emotional, and comforting at the same time. I loved watching the characters grow with new experiences and dynamics, and honestly, I kept wishing friendships like theirs existed everywhere in real life.
The bond between the three girls was my favorite part — supportive, chaotic, and heartwarming in the most natural way. I also adored the grandmother’s role in the story. The way she stood by her granddaughter in every situation felt so genuine and comforting.
What I loved most was how the book showed that not everything kids do behind their parents’ backs is necessarily wrong. Sometimes, they are just trying to find themselves, follow their dreams, and create something meaningful — especially when the adults around them can be hypocritical. Seeing the girls make a name for themselves despite all that made the story even more inspiring.
Such a fun, relatable, and memorable read for teenagers.
Reading Being an Indian Teenager felt so special to me because this was the first physical comic book I’ve ever read, and I absolutely loved it. The story felt so real, emotional, and comforting at the same time. I loved watching the characters grow with new experiences and dynamics, and honestly, I kept wishing friendships like theirs existed everywhere in real life.
The bond between the three girls was my favorite part — supportive, chaotic, and heartwarming in the most natural way. I also adored the grandmother’s role in the story. The way she stood by her granddaughter in every situation felt so genuine and comforting.
What I loved most was how the book showed that not everything kids do behind their parents’ backs is necessarily wrong. Sometimes, they are just trying to find themselves, follow their dreams, and create something meaningful — especially when the adults around them can be hypocritical. Seeing the girls make a name for themselves despite all that made the story even more inspiring.
Such a fun, relatable, and memorable read for teenagers.
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