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A Place at the Table
A timely, accessible, and beautifully written story exploring themes of food, friendship, family and what it means to belong, featuring sixth-graders Sara, a Pakistani American, and Elizabeth, a white, Jewish girl taking a South Asian cooking class taught by Sara's mom. Sixth graders Sara and Elizabeth could not be more different. Sara is at a new school that is completely unlike the small Islamic school she used to attend. Elizabeth has her own problems: her British mum has been struggling with depression. The girls meet in an after-school South Asian cooking class, which Elizabeth takes because her mom has stopped cooking, and which Sara, who hates to cook, is forced to attend because her mother is the teacher. The girls form a shaky alliance that gradually deepens, and they make plans to create the most amazing, mouth-watering cross-cultural dish together and win a spot on a local food show. They make good cooking partners . . . but can they learn to trust each other enough to become true friends?
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First published August 11, 2020
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About the author
Saadia Faruqi
139 books466 followersSaadia Faruqi is a Pakistani American author, essayist and interfaith activist. She writes the children’s early reader series “Yasmin” published by Capstone and other books for children, including middle grade novels “A Place At The Table” (HMH/Clarion 2020) co-written with Laura Shovan, and “A Thousand Questions” (Harper Collins 2020). She has also written “Brick Walls: Tales of Hope & Courage from Pakistan” a short story collection for adults and teens. Saadia is editor-in-chief of Blue Minaret, a magazine for Muslim art, poetry and prose, and was featured in Oprah Magazine in 2017 as a woman making a difference in her community. She resides in Houston, TX with her husband and children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 439 reviews
August 20, 2020
5/5
A Place at the Table, by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, is a middle-grades novel written in two voices. Both narrators are sixth grade girls. First, Sara Hameed is the daughter of Pakistani immigrants. She had attended a small, private Muslim school where she felt very comfortable, but now she is a student at a large, public middle school, where she feels sorely out of place. Second is Elizabeth Shainmark, the daughter of a mother who emigrated from England to marry an American Jewish man. The girls meet in an after-school cooking club being taught by Mrs. Hammed. Sara is there because her mother thinks she is too young to stay home alone, but Elizabeth is there because she really wants to learn how to cook.
Both girls have issues of being singled out for their different religions (Islam and Judaism), but it is Sara who has suffered the most as her difference also is racial and obvious from a distance. At the same time both girls have similar issues in their lives. Both are dealing with parents who are having their own problems. The Hameeds are struggling financially as they are trying to get Mrs. Hameed’s catering business off the ground. The Shainmarks are struggling because Mrs. Shainmark is depressed and spends way too much time either in bed or talking on the phone to her sister, who still lives in England. Mr. Shainmark, feeling the pressure of being the sole breadwinner of the family, has taken a job that keeps him away from home much of the time. That leaves a heavy burden for their children just to keep the household afloat. Both girls’ mothers are not yet citizens who have been stalling on studying for their citizenship tests. Both girls have younger brothers who are just so pesky. Both girls are also having issues with their own best friends, not to mention the usual problems of sixth graders dealing with school, unreasonable teachers, mean girls, fitting in, and so on. Plenty going on, but never so much a reader loses track.
Sara and Elizabeth meet in cooking club, but at first neither is exactly a fan of the other. Through the course of the book, the two get to know each other better and learn that even people from very different backgrounds have more in common than either could have imagined. The book is a very satisfying read; in fact, it’s a page-turner. And it’s got a positive message for kids, especially for kids living in a time where Americans are feeling torn apart, especially across religious and racial lines. I’ve bought some extra copies (for family and friends). One will be going to my rising sixth-grade granddaughter, who is a confirmed Shovan fan. I am sure she will eagerly and happily devour this book, and then, as is her wont, she will reread - - several times. If you love any middle grade students, this would be a perfect gift for them.
A Place at the Table, by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, is a middle-grades novel written in two voices. Both narrators are sixth grade girls. First, Sara Hameed is the daughter of Pakistani immigrants. She had attended a small, private Muslim school where she felt very comfortable, but now she is a student at a large, public middle school, where she feels sorely out of place. Second is Elizabeth Shainmark, the daughter of a mother who emigrated from England to marry an American Jewish man. The girls meet in an after-school cooking club being taught by Mrs. Hammed. Sara is there because her mother thinks she is too young to stay home alone, but Elizabeth is there because she really wants to learn how to cook.
Both girls have issues of being singled out for their different religions (Islam and Judaism), but it is Sara who has suffered the most as her difference also is racial and obvious from a distance. At the same time both girls have similar issues in their lives. Both are dealing with parents who are having their own problems. The Hameeds are struggling financially as they are trying to get Mrs. Hameed’s catering business off the ground. The Shainmarks are struggling because Mrs. Shainmark is depressed and spends way too much time either in bed or talking on the phone to her sister, who still lives in England. Mr. Shainmark, feeling the pressure of being the sole breadwinner of the family, has taken a job that keeps him away from home much of the time. That leaves a heavy burden for their children just to keep the household afloat. Both girls’ mothers are not yet citizens who have been stalling on studying for their citizenship tests. Both girls have younger brothers who are just so pesky. Both girls are also having issues with their own best friends, not to mention the usual problems of sixth graders dealing with school, unreasonable teachers, mean girls, fitting in, and so on. Plenty going on, but never so much a reader loses track.
Sara and Elizabeth meet in cooking club, but at first neither is exactly a fan of the other. Through the course of the book, the two get to know each other better and learn that even people from very different backgrounds have more in common than either could have imagined. The book is a very satisfying read; in fact, it’s a page-turner. And it’s got a positive message for kids, especially for kids living in a time where Americans are feeling torn apart, especially across religious and racial lines. I’ve bought some extra copies (for family and friends). One will be going to my rising sixth-grade granddaughter, who is a confirmed Shovan fan. I am sure she will eagerly and happily devour this book, and then, as is her wont, she will reread - - several times. If you love any middle grade students, this would be a perfect gift for them.
November 6, 2020
I wanted to read this book for months. Finally, I got the chance to read it. This book is about honest friendship, cultural representation and immigrants life.
Sara, who is Muslim, and her parents are Pakistani immigrants. Her mother runs her catering business and is teaching in a cooking club. Elizabeth, who is a Jew, and her mother moved to the USA after the wedding. They connected over food and immigrants problems.
I like the honesty of the story, the authors didn’t try to glamorize anything, everything was upfront and raw. I was expecting to relate to Sara as a Muslim and Pakistani, but she turned out kind of whinny, I got it with time why she is liked that still, I found her a bit arrogant. On the other hand, Elizabeth is a sweetheart.
I love the way they incorporate so many major and minor issues in this book without making it overwhelming. I didn’t know much about Jews so it was informative to read about it.
Food representation was perfect and I was craving for food throughout the book.
Sara, who is Muslim, and her parents are Pakistani immigrants. Her mother runs her catering business and is teaching in a cooking club. Elizabeth, who is a Jew, and her mother moved to the USA after the wedding. They connected over food and immigrants problems.
I like the honesty of the story, the authors didn’t try to glamorize anything, everything was upfront and raw. I was expecting to relate to Sara as a Muslim and Pakistani, but she turned out kind of whinny, I got it with time why she is liked that still, I found her a bit arrogant. On the other hand, Elizabeth is a sweetheart.
I love the way they incorporate so many major and minor issues in this book without making it overwhelming. I didn’t know much about Jews so it was informative to read about it.
Food representation was perfect and I was craving for food throughout the book.
Read
May 23, 2023a heartwarming story of two girls finding friendship while each struggling with family issues like grief, loss, and financial insecurity
i was rooting for both Sara and Elizabeth, and my heart hurt for them as they faced pressure both in terms of fitting in at school and with keeping their families from breaking apart
the cooking aspect that tied the story together was lovely, and i am definitely leaving hungrier than i was when i started this book 🤭
i was rooting for both Sara and Elizabeth, and my heart hurt for them as they faced pressure both in terms of fitting in at school and with keeping their families from breaking apart
the cooking aspect that tied the story together was lovely, and i am definitely leaving hungrier than i was when i started this book 🤭
October 25, 2020
This story gave me all the feels! It's a warm, simple story that still manages to take on some difficult topics, including racism, immigration, and depression. Shovan and Faruqi develop every character in subtle but interesting ways. The personalities of the two main characters are as engaging as they are different and this made the development of their friendship particularly interesting to watch. The adult characters were also full, compelling characters with their own problems, which is refreshing when children's books so often skip giving adult characters this treatment. I also like the cultures and religious traditions that were presented in clever ways, especially Sara's unabashed pride in her Muslim and ethnic identity. And of course, the food descriptions were absolutely appetizing! As an educator, I think this would be a great book to spark important conversations. As a book lover, I love it for its authentic relationships and characters.
July 24, 2019
Saadia and I discussed our collaboration on A PLACE AT THE TABLE at the Nerdy Book Club Blog.
https://nerdybookclub.wordpress.com/2...
https://nerdybookclub.wordpress.com/2...
May 15, 2024
And Sara is the reason why I don't read books that have anything to do with Pakistani girls!
Here, I thought I'd give this book a try... but sadly I was once again disappointed.
I gave this book 2 stars because I love the whole book and the all characters EXCEPT for SARA!!! She is the only character that I absolutely hated in the whole book. I thought I dislike Maddie because of her rude comments towards Mulism/Pakistani people, but that was only because she was absorbing that from her racist parents. But Sara is a whole another story. I hate literally everything about her character. I told myself that no big she's the girl who's from a mishmash background, being in the US is tough, leaving your Islamic school suddenly is hard, and I tried to give her all types of excuses, but throughout the book, my hatred for her kept increasing. And I can totally say that because a) I am Pakistani, and b) I came to the US when I entered 5th grade, I was shy and scared and quiet but nothing like Sara. Throughout the book, Sara was nothing short of snooty, self-centered, easier offended, rude, insensitive, and such an awkward girl. I felt offended by her more so than the other characters in the book. It felt as if she was personally making me a Pakistani female look bad in front of others, as Pakistani we must stand up for ourselves so people can see that we are nice and kind, It felt like like Sara was tarnishing me. I felt violated by her. I felt like giving Sara a piece of my mind if she was real. I understood the financial difficulties her parents were going through because when I came to the states I was living in a joint-family with my grandparents and uncles, my dad felt uncomfortable every day, our finances weren't the best either. I can say that I was just like her at her age and yet when someone tried to be nice to me I didn't give them the cold shoulder or whatever, heck 9/11 happend only 2 years after, and I still wasn't as rude as Sara. I disliked her character at the beginning and felt sorry for Elizebeth for being so kind and friendly towards Sara. I even loved Rabia's character. I really did love the book if only Sara had a better character she acted so unlike a Pakistani typical girl. And being offended by every little thing was a bit overly done, like the ethnic food comment?! like come on get real. Sure the comments made by Maddie were terrible I get it, I have gotten such slurs as well but to dislike everyone and shut yourself up is not the best response and I absolutely hated Sara snapping at Elizabeth for asking her to Trick-or-Treat, she was just trying to invite Sara out. Sara had no right to just snap at her and assume that Elizabeth would know that Muslims do not celebrate Halloween, while in fact lots of Muslims don't mind the holiday they take it as a time to dress up and have fun. So it is really hard for non-Muslims to know that Halloween is not celebrated by Muslims. I for one do not celebrate it but the concept of dressing up is fun. I was also really angry when Sara bashed Isalm for being boring and not fun. I mean if a Muslim is bashing Islam on her own then what's stopping others from bashing it. Like, get real.
Overall the story was wonderful, the characters (except Sara) were all awesome and relatable and real, the concept of food was very nicely incorporated in the story. I found the endearing since my own mother is a great cook, The collaboration of two different faiths was very expertly done. I absolutely loved Elizabeth and Micah. So yeah this book would have gotten 5 stars had the lead not being so rude and pre-angsty. I even loved Sara's parents and it's not often that I love Pakistani parents.
Here, I thought I'd give this book a try... but sadly I was once again disappointed.
I gave this book 2 stars because I love the whole book and the all characters EXCEPT for SARA!!! She is the only character that I absolutely hated in the whole book. I thought I dislike Maddie because of her rude comments towards Mulism/Pakistani people, but that was only because she was absorbing that from her racist parents. But Sara is a whole another story. I hate literally everything about her character. I told myself that no big she's the girl who's from a mishmash background, being in the US is tough, leaving your Islamic school suddenly is hard, and I tried to give her all types of excuses, but throughout the book, my hatred for her kept increasing. And I can totally say that because a) I am Pakistani, and b) I came to the US when I entered 5th grade, I was shy and scared and quiet but nothing like Sara. Throughout the book, Sara was nothing short of snooty, self-centered, easier offended, rude, insensitive, and such an awkward girl. I felt offended by her more so than the other characters in the book. It felt as if she was personally making me a Pakistani female look bad in front of others, as Pakistani we must stand up for ourselves so people can see that we are nice and kind, It felt like like Sara was tarnishing me. I felt violated by her. I felt like giving Sara a piece of my mind if she was real. I understood the financial difficulties her parents were going through because when I came to the states I was living in a joint-family with my grandparents and uncles, my dad felt uncomfortable every day, our finances weren't the best either. I can say that I was just like her at her age and yet when someone tried to be nice to me I didn't give them the cold shoulder or whatever, heck 9/11 happend only 2 years after, and I still wasn't as rude as Sara. I disliked her character at the beginning and felt sorry for Elizebeth for being so kind and friendly towards Sara. I even loved Rabia's character. I really did love the book if only Sara had a better character she acted so unlike a Pakistani typical girl. And being offended by every little thing was a bit overly done, like the ethnic food comment?! like come on get real. Sure the comments made by Maddie were terrible I get it, I have gotten such slurs as well but to dislike everyone and shut yourself up is not the best response and I absolutely hated Sara snapping at Elizabeth for asking her to Trick-or-Treat, she was just trying to invite Sara out. Sara had no right to just snap at her and assume that Elizabeth would know that Muslims do not celebrate Halloween, while in fact lots of Muslims don't mind the holiday they take it as a time to dress up and have fun. So it is really hard for non-Muslims to know that Halloween is not celebrated by Muslims. I for one do not celebrate it but the concept of dressing up is fun. I was also really angry when Sara bashed Isalm for being boring and not fun. I mean if a Muslim is bashing Islam on her own then what's stopping others from bashing it. Like, get real.
Overall the story was wonderful, the characters (except Sara) were all awesome and relatable and real, the concept of food was very nicely incorporated in the story. I found the endearing since my own mother is a great cook, The collaboration of two different faiths was very expertly done. I absolutely loved Elizabeth and Micah. So yeah this book would have gotten 5 stars had the lead not being so rude and pre-angsty. I even loved Sara's parents and it's not often that I love Pakistani parents.
December 6, 2019
I was enormously lucky to read an early version of this book. The story is told in two voices in alternating chapters, between Elizabeth (Jewish) and Sara (Muslim), whose families are from different religious and cultural backgrounds. The representation is accurate, co-written by two #OwnVoices authors who bring their own life experiences to the storytelling. Readers will follow modern day characters who grapple with fitting in, standing out, and knowing what it is to be a true friend and ally. This is a must own in classrooms and would make a fabulous book club choice!
January 12, 2020
I finished reading A Place at the Table before the New Year so I did not include it on my official #mustreadin2020 list, but this novel, beautifully co-written by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan is truly one you do not want to miss.
Navigating middle school is challenging for sixth graders, Sara and Elizabeth. Sara is adjusting to attending public school for the first time, and Elizabeth is dealing with a change in her relationship with her best friend, Maddy. Home life also presents issues. Sara is worried about her mother’s catering business while Elizabeth is coping with her mother’s depression after the death of Elizabeth’s grandmother.
Sara and Elizabeth meet in an after school cooking club which is taught by Sara’s mother. The girls become partners out of necessity and at first, it seems that Sara who is Pakistan-American and Elizabeth who is British-Jewish-American have nothing in common. An extremely talented artist, Sara would rather create in her sketchbook while cooking, reading, and Dr. Who are Elizabeth’s passions. Their friendship has a rocky start but after a few mishaps, they learn the key to being a true friend is honesty and patience. Sara and Elizabeth also realize that their cultural differences are an asset, for through their collaboration, they create a unique recipe for the international cooking contest.
Told through the points of view of Sara and Elizabeth in alternating chapters, co-authors Faruqi and Shovan have seamlessly written an authentic and powerful middle grade story that explores themes of family, culture, religion, identity, racism, friendship, food and most importantly, finding the voice to speak up for yourself and others. I highly recommend A Place at the Table to not only students but also teachers and parents, for I gained perspective on Pakistani and Jewish culture and the challenges of being a first generation American. As a Marylander, I also loved that the novel took place in my home state with many references such as The Curious Iguana, an independent bookstore in Frederick and our hometown paper, The Baltimore Sun.
Thanks to the authors and publisher Clarion Books/HMH for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group. Pre-order now, for A Place at the Table will be released on May 12, 2020.
Navigating middle school is challenging for sixth graders, Sara and Elizabeth. Sara is adjusting to attending public school for the first time, and Elizabeth is dealing with a change in her relationship with her best friend, Maddy. Home life also presents issues. Sara is worried about her mother’s catering business while Elizabeth is coping with her mother’s depression after the death of Elizabeth’s grandmother.
Sara and Elizabeth meet in an after school cooking club which is taught by Sara’s mother. The girls become partners out of necessity and at first, it seems that Sara who is Pakistan-American and Elizabeth who is British-Jewish-American have nothing in common. An extremely talented artist, Sara would rather create in her sketchbook while cooking, reading, and Dr. Who are Elizabeth’s passions. Their friendship has a rocky start but after a few mishaps, they learn the key to being a true friend is honesty and patience. Sara and Elizabeth also realize that their cultural differences are an asset, for through their collaboration, they create a unique recipe for the international cooking contest.
Told through the points of view of Sara and Elizabeth in alternating chapters, co-authors Faruqi and Shovan have seamlessly written an authentic and powerful middle grade story that explores themes of family, culture, religion, identity, racism, friendship, food and most importantly, finding the voice to speak up for yourself and others. I highly recommend A Place at the Table to not only students but also teachers and parents, for I gained perspective on Pakistani and Jewish culture and the challenges of being a first generation American. As a Marylander, I also loved that the novel took place in my home state with many references such as The Curious Iguana, an independent bookstore in Frederick and our hometown paper, The Baltimore Sun.
Thanks to the authors and publisher Clarion Books/HMH for sharing an ARC with my #bookexcursion group. Pre-order now, for A Place at the Table will be released on May 12, 2020.
September 5, 2020
A Place at the Table by @LauraShovan & @SaadiaFaruqi reminds us showing bravery and honesty in our friendships can lead to change in the best way. Give yourself the gift of reading this dual narrative story rich in family, culture, food, family, & friendships. #mglit
“But what would I say to her? ‘Hey, former bestie. The racism thing? I know you can do better.’ “
���Does popular equal mean?”
“But what would I say to her? ‘Hey, former bestie. The racism thing? I know you can do better.’ “
���Does popular equal mean?”
October 26, 2020
Fantastic and unique middle grade. Sweet spot is grades 4-6.
October 26, 2020
3.5 stars
There’s just so much to appreciate about this book. The discussion of immigration, the beautiful descriptions of food that make your mouth water, the friendships, the family dynamics… I could go on.
At the heart of this story is a friendship between two girls and as someone who loves reading friendship stories, I absolutely adored how this one was developed! The progression of it felt really natural and because it’s dual POV, we got to hear from both sides, which I thought really added to it! The dynamic was also really well-written! But outside of the main developing friendship, I really loved the side friendships as well and the way all of those relationships evolved over the course of the story and contributed to the main plot.
That said, the main plot outside of the friendship wasn’t my favorite. The big climax that the story was working up towards wasn’t really introduced until about a third of the way into the book, which means that for the first third, the story feels directionless. But when the main plot does get introduced, a lot of the scenes following it felt rushed because there wasn’t enough time to properly explore it. I also wasn’t a fan of some of the way interpersonal conflicts were resolved.
However, I loved the side plots running through this narrative. I especially loved the discussion on immigration and feeling removed from home and the struggles that come with being a first-gen kid. There was a lot of page time devoted to that and I really appreciated that.
I also really loved the family dynamics in this story! Our two main characters come from two very different families, but both of those dynamics are really well-written and well-developed and I loved reading about each of them.
Overall, there is so much to love about this book! And I definitely won’t hesitate to recommend it to everyone and anyone! There were just some parts that I wish had been a little bit stronger.
There’s just so much to appreciate about this book. The discussion of immigration, the beautiful descriptions of food that make your mouth water, the friendships, the family dynamics… I could go on.
At the heart of this story is a friendship between two girls and as someone who loves reading friendship stories, I absolutely adored how this one was developed! The progression of it felt really natural and because it’s dual POV, we got to hear from both sides, which I thought really added to it! The dynamic was also really well-written! But outside of the main developing friendship, I really loved the side friendships as well and the way all of those relationships evolved over the course of the story and contributed to the main plot.
That said, the main plot outside of the friendship wasn’t my favorite. The big climax that the story was working up towards wasn’t really introduced until about a third of the way into the book, which means that for the first third, the story feels directionless. But when the main plot does get introduced, a lot of the scenes following it felt rushed because there wasn’t enough time to properly explore it. I also wasn’t a fan of some of the way interpersonal conflicts were resolved.
However, I loved the side plots running through this narrative. I especially loved the discussion on immigration and feeling removed from home and the struggles that come with being a first-gen kid. There was a lot of page time devoted to that and I really appreciated that.
I also really loved the family dynamics in this story! Our two main characters come from two very different families, but both of those dynamics are really well-written and well-developed and I loved reading about each of them.
Overall, there is so much to love about this book! And I definitely won’t hesitate to recommend it to everyone and anyone! There were just some parts that I wish had been a little bit stronger.
April 18, 2021
This was a very moving middle-grade novel about friendships, racism, anti-Immigrant prejudices, mental health, family relationships, and more. The descriptions of food are mouth-watering, and the ending is very good and emotional. That said, there were a few things that bothered me, that could have easily been edited. On page 70, Elizabeth's Hebrew School principal calls her and her friend, Micah, by their Hebrew names, Elisheva and Michah. Elizabeth narrates, "I'd like to tell Mrs. Gruver that both our names are from the Torah..." Except Elizabeth and Micah are not from the Torah. Elizabeth is a character in the New Testament or Christian Bible. Micah is a name from the Hebrew Bible, which includes the Torah, but is not synonymous with Torah. On page 140, Elizabeth explains to her Muslim friends that "When you're Jewish, you're not supposed to harm your body. No piercings. No tattoos...There are some girls at my Hebrew school with pierced ears, so maybe it's only my family." The likelihood that a family like Elizabeth's, which does not keep the more common Jewish traditions like keeping Kosher, would prohibit ear piercing, simply does not ring true. It might for a more traditionally observant family, but not Elizabeth's. Finally, Elizabeth and her mom are treated unkindly by some in the Jewish community because her mom is a convert to Judaism. She is called a "Shiksa," sometimes intended cruelly, and sometimes in jest, but it's hurtful either way. While this is more believable that it could happen the piercing issue, it's also a very negative portrayal of Jews, particularly since Judaism prohibits treating a convert differently than one who was born Jewish. The book was good, but it could have been better if it had gotten these things more accurate and believable.
January 17, 2020
A Place At The Table by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan
Bespectacled, nerdy, half-Jewish-half-Brittish Elizabeth and dark-haired, artistic, Muslim, Pakistani-American Sara may not realize it at first but they have a lot in common. Both have mothers who are immigrants studying for their citizenship tests, both have pesky brothers, both are members of often discriminated against religious groups, both have best friends who are suddenly distant through no fault of their own. When they become partners in an afterschool South Asian cooking club, they begin to let the preconceived notions each has about the other fall away and learn that there is much more to someone than what you see on the outside. Through the experiences of these two girls we see the path to find common ground with anyone.
Like five star fusion cuisine, Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan beautifully blend cultures and writing styles in this seamless story of two worlds that meet in middle school. The lessons within this book are many: don’t judge people without taking time to talk to them, don’t assume people won’t understand without giving them a chance, and being a passive observer is not the same as being an ally.
We are all human and that means we all have stories to tell. Even the mean girls, even the too-strict teacher, even the absentee parent, If we’re willing to see people and hear their stories we can see how much we share and not just how different we seem on the outside. This beautiful novel shows the path to making sure we all have a place at the table.
Recommended for grades 3-8
Bespectacled, nerdy, half-Jewish-half-Brittish Elizabeth and dark-haired, artistic, Muslim, Pakistani-American Sara may not realize it at first but they have a lot in common. Both have mothers who are immigrants studying for their citizenship tests, both have pesky brothers, both are members of often discriminated against religious groups, both have best friends who are suddenly distant through no fault of their own. When they become partners in an afterschool South Asian cooking club, they begin to let the preconceived notions each has about the other fall away and learn that there is much more to someone than what you see on the outside. Through the experiences of these two girls we see the path to find common ground with anyone.
Like five star fusion cuisine, Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan beautifully blend cultures and writing styles in this seamless story of two worlds that meet in middle school. The lessons within this book are many: don’t judge people without taking time to talk to them, don’t assume people won’t understand without giving them a chance, and being a passive observer is not the same as being an ally.
We are all human and that means we all have stories to tell. Even the mean girls, even the too-strict teacher, even the absentee parent, If we’re willing to see people and hear their stories we can see how much we share and not just how different we seem on the outside. This beautiful novel shows the path to making sure we all have a place at the table.
Recommended for grades 3-8
February 21, 2020
Thank you to Saadia Faruqi, Laura Shovan and Clarion books for sharing an early copy with #bookexpedition.
Told in alternating points of view, this middle grade novel shares the stories of Elizabeth and Sara, two sixth graders who need a friend. The girls are from different cultures and religious backgrounds, and they’re both struggling with complicated home lives and brought together through a cooking class. The girls learn that both moms are preparing to take the U.S. Citizenship test and bring them together to help each other study.
I think this would make an excellent book club read or read aloud. There’s much for student readers to unpack and discuss. Topics such as race, religion, family, friendship, and immigration are revealed throughout the story, and I can see middle grade readers diving in and discussing.
Food is also big part of this story, and I’m looking forward to the published version and the recipes that are to come. Cowritten by #OwnVoices authors who bring in their life experiences to the storytelling, this is a preorder must. Publishes in May 2020.
Told in alternating points of view, this middle grade novel shares the stories of Elizabeth and Sara, two sixth graders who need a friend. The girls are from different cultures and religious backgrounds, and they’re both struggling with complicated home lives and brought together through a cooking class. The girls learn that both moms are preparing to take the U.S. Citizenship test and bring them together to help each other study.
I think this would make an excellent book club read or read aloud. There’s much for student readers to unpack and discuss. Topics such as race, religion, family, friendship, and immigration are revealed throughout the story, and I can see middle grade readers diving in and discussing.
Food is also big part of this story, and I’m looking forward to the published version and the recipes that are to come. Cowritten by #OwnVoices authors who bring in their life experiences to the storytelling, this is a preorder must. Publishes in May 2020.
October 29, 2020
so.
i finished.
review to come/2.5 stars
+++++++++++++++++
a little bit cliche, a dash of good food, a heaping cup of boringness, and a pinch of drama.
this is: this book.
i don't have many thoughts, indicating that it wasn't that good. what good book doesn't indicate thoughts guys really. it was very. . .done before. new black/brown girl among loads of white girls, who are mostly stuck-up and mean, including the ex-best friend of your her only friend. we've seen that. they added cooking and called it a day. which, disappointing. i mean, yes this is a lesson about social pressures and racism, which should always be listened to and is needed, but still.
that's basically it. if you could grab me some of those hanukkah donut things and some pakistani parathas now, thanks.
i finished.
review to come/2.5 stars
+++++++++++++++++
a little bit cliche, a dash of good food, a heaping cup of boringness, and a pinch of drama.
this is: this book.
i don't have many thoughts, indicating that it wasn't that good. what good book doesn't indicate thoughts guys really. it was very. . .done before. new black/brown girl among loads of white girls, who are mostly stuck-up and mean, including the ex-best friend of your her only friend. we've seen that. they added cooking and called it a day. which, disappointing. i mean, yes this is a lesson about social pressures and racism, which should always be listened to and is needed, but still.
that's basically it. if you could grab me some of those hanukkah donut things and some pakistani parathas now, thanks.
January 5, 2020
I love everything about this book, except for the fact that I received an ARC from NCTE and therefore don't have the recipes yet! Cannot wait to buy the final version and try every single recipe included.
Sara and Elizabeth have never met before they both find themselves in a South Asian cooking class. They soon discover they're both daughters of immigrants who are studying for the citizenship exam, but not having an easy time doing so. As they work together on their cooking and forming a friendship, they both learn so much about what being a true friend means.
There's so much to love in this book. Highly recommend for students in grade 5 and up.
Sara and Elizabeth have never met before they both find themselves in a South Asian cooking class. They soon discover they're both daughters of immigrants who are studying for the citizenship exam, but not having an easy time doing so. As they work together on their cooking and forming a friendship, they both learn so much about what being a true friend means.
There's so much to love in this book. Highly recommend for students in grade 5 and up.
December 22, 2019
Thank you to Laura Shovan, Saadia Faruqi, and Clarion Books for sharing an ARC with #bookexpedition.
This book has my whole heart. Told in alternating points of view, sixth graders Sara and Elizabeth are each in need of a friend. Both girls are struggling with complicated home lives and a common bond of cooking brings them together. Mix in a cooking contest, middle school friendships, and a much-needed lesson on empathy, A Place at the Table is required reading for all modern educators and their students. This is 100% a pre-order for me.
This book has my whole heart. Told in alternating points of view, sixth graders Sara and Elizabeth are each in need of a friend. Both girls are struggling with complicated home lives and a common bond of cooking brings them together. Mix in a cooking contest, middle school friendships, and a much-needed lesson on empathy, A Place at the Table is required reading for all modern educators and their students. This is 100% a pre-order for me.
August 16, 2020
Faruqi and Shovan tag-team in this sweet novel about two middle school girls that strike an unlikely friendship. This book skillfully addresses racism, immigration, mental health and bullying from the point of view of the oppressed - in this case, two daughters of immigrants, Sara and Elizabeth. I think this book would make a great read aloud that would hopefully spark some constructive conversations in diverse (and not-so-diverse) classrooms.
October 26, 2022
There is a recipe for ice cream in this book that Ben & Jerry really ought to create. Or better yet, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream company.
It is otherwise a good middle grade book for girls about racism, cooking, friendship, families.
It is otherwise a good middle grade book for girls about racism, cooking, friendship, families.
March 9, 2021
I love A Thousand Question more. But this one is also enjoyable. I love the character growth and the friendship. And of course the way Saadia describes food.
Read
May 6, 2024
Trigger & Content Warnings
Racism
Parent with depression
Racism
Parent with depression
August 6, 2023
Absolutely lovely! The central friendship was great and the different issues + side characters were handled with so much nuance and respect. And I LOVED the food element!
CW: Grief, depression, racism, xenophobia
CW: Grief, depression, racism, xenophobia
February 4, 2023
Sara and Elizabeth are two sixth graders from different worlds yet both first generation American with many of the same concerns and feelings. When Sara's mom starts teaching a cooking class at Sara's new public middle school, Sara is embarrassed. Embarrassed both by her mother's heavy Pakistani accent and for the white kids who don't know anything about cooking. She hurts for her mother when kids are cruel yet doesn't want to stand out and be bullied herself. Elizabeth, also first generation American, has a mom who can't cook. Lately, Elizabeth's mom has been feeling depressed since the death of Elizabeth's Nan. If Elizabeth can take on cooking for the family, it's one less thing her mom needs to worry about. Elizabeth's best friend Maddy is in the class too but now Maddy wants to hang out more with Stephanie, a cool girl who owns her own cupcake business. Elizabeth hoped for one-on-one time with Maddy but now it seems like it's just one time. If she doesn't have a partner, she can't enter the exciting new international food festival contest. Sara joins Elizabeth, in order to protect her mom, and the two come up with the idea to create a fusion dish featuring the flavors of their cultures. They also have a plan to get their moms together to finally study for their citizenship tests and become real Americans. Sara and Elizabeth must navigate the social waters of middle school while also balancing family concerns and prejudice. Can they win the contest, save Mrs. Hameed's job and help others see that "foreigners" have a place at the table?
This is really good and interesting. Yes people are racist and anti-Semitic. Read the book and learn from it "there are no 'People Like Us' only people." My only real complaints are that it takes too long to discuss the nuances of both girls' religions. How they dress is a personal choice for their families. A little more nuances of how there are Pakistanis who speak with "beautiful" (English) accents and sip tea and others, like Sara's mom, who don't speak English as a first language and speak with a heavy accent. Just as there are Jews like Elizabeth's family who don't allow piercings and don't keep kosher and Jews who do piercings and Jews who keep kosher. I would also have preferred Micah to be Latino-Jewish and not Latino AND Jewish. Showcasing the Jewish diaspora is important. Not all Jews come from Europe or Israel.
There's lots of cooking, mostly South Asian, to whet your appetite and introduce kids to new foods. While I don't like spicy foods, garlic or onions, I appreciated learning about another culture's cuisine. I also don't enjoy the Hot Pockets Elizabeth's family eats regularly but I LOVE tea and scones! I wanted to visit the International Food Festival at their school though and try some yummy foods, especially Maddy and Stephanie's. I fail to see how theirs qualifies as "international" though.
The characters are all pretty well-rounded though other than those few minor quibbles. I really liked Sara and Elizabeth and both their voices mostly sounded true. (Until Elizabeth gets "mushy" at the end.) I think my dad, growing up Italian-American post-WWII can probably relate to Sara. At first I didn't like Sara though. She was determined to be unfriendly and was prejudiced against white people. Yes many of us actually DO know where/when our families came from and grew up cooking and eating so-called foreign food. My family cooks with a lot of the same ingredients as Sara's family and like Sara, I wish the house did NOT smell like garlic all the time.
Sara is so prickly, but we can see as the story progresses, how she makes herself unfriendly as a defense mechanism. She feels very out of place in a super large, mostly white middle school. Previously she went to a tiny school affiliated with her mosque. She hasn't yet found her voice. She retreats into herself and her art to ease her anxieties. I did not like how snippy she was to Elizabeth when Elizabeth invited her trick-or-treating. SOME Muslims do go trick-or-treating and SOME Jews don't so how was Elizabeth supposed to know what Sara's family's rules are? All you have to do is sigh and say "I'm not allowed. It's like literally against my religion." And then Elizabeth could say "Technically mine too since Halloween has pagan and early Christian roots but we also celebrate Christmas with my mom's family even though we're Jewish so I'm allowed to go trick-or-treating." Yes they're kids but Sara didn't have to be rude about it.
Caught between two worlds, Sara sometimes loathes her family choices like fasting and not being allowed to trick-or-treat. Other times she loves them like when she prays alone. Sara is often exasperated by her twin brothers who are cute but lively. That's something many kids can relate to! Sara is also torn between her feelings as an American teenager and the filial obedience expected of her as a Pakistani Muslim daughter. Her parents want her to be a child and Sara knows too much about life to act like an innocent child any longer. She's experienced racist bullying, understands money troubles and is struggling to figure out who she is and what she wants to do with her life. She also longs for the way things used to be, before her mother started her own catering business, when life was more simple and fun. She was close to her mother then and now her mother barely has time for her. I think many tweens and teens can relate to her even if they're not first generation American or Pakistani.
Elizabeth is super likable from the get-go. She's perky, cheerful, optimistic and sometimes naïve but she's also wise beyond her years. She feels the family burdens, recognizes what's going on with her mother but as a kid, she feels powerless to help her family. Elizabeth is a cute nerd with a Doctor Who obsession. I couldn't get into the show when I tried it recently but I appreciate a good nerdy character. She also has a passion for cooking and enjoys trying new foods. She's the only girl and I would imagine that adds to her feelings of needing to be the problem solver. Elizabeth doesn't always get along with her older brother and I like that because it's realistic and I like that when she needs help, he's there for her. Her little brother, like Sara's brothers, is barely there except as a cute little hyperactive kid.
The girls did a bad bad thing and didn't fess up right away so some parents might complain about that. Mostly though it emphases a child's obedience to her parents' (Sara). It also shows how adult problems affect children too and sometimes kids take it upon themselves to fix the adult problems in ways they understand which doesn't always translate to filial obedience.
I love Sara's best friend Rabia! She's the kind of friend you want to have your back. They can hang out and watch YouTube videos together or shop at the mall, talk, tell stories. Rabia is feisty and funny. She can stand up to bullies and takes no punches from anyone. Even though she doesn't go to the same school as Sara, they have a shared history, a shared culture and will always be connected because of that. I like Elizabeth's pal Micah too. He's funny and creative. He takes his Jewish identity in stride and doesn't fuss about it. He's Jewish AND Latino and appreciates both sides. His Abuela is his favorite person in the world but he also goes to Hebrew School. I like his easy-going nature and that he isn't a weird, gross, middle school boy (yet?).
Maddy and Stephanie seem like the typical mean girls of middle school. I really am tired of the "my best friend changed over the summer" trope and the "if you just get to know the mean girl, you'll learn what she's going through that makes her that way" trope. Snore! However, I'm not the target audience and if helps girls figure out their relationships during the tough teen years, then OK I guess. I did like how the two girls surprised me, especially Stephanie. Maddy was kind of transparent. I feel bad for her but her character growth is pretty good. Stephanie is just kind of little miss perfect and I would TOTALLY hate her even if she was the nicest girl in school. I'm sure she's the one all the parents are admiring going "Why can't you be more like Stephanie?"
The adults are a little less nuanced than the kids but not so two-dimensional, with the exception of Maddy's parents. Sara's mother, Mrs. Hameed, is a busy lady. She owns her own catering business and is teaching this cooking club at the middle school, has three children, a husband and a house! I don't know where she finds the time and energy for all that but she does. It's clear she's passionate about cooking even if she thought of it as a way to make money at first. She wants more for her children though and makes sure they know it. Sometimes her rules are at odds with American culture and sometimes she doesn't understand what it's like for her daughter to be caught between two worlds. Sara's dad is hilarious. He is obsessed with the A-Team, an "old" show from the 80s and his catchphrase is "Pity the fool!" That's how he deals with racism and any other adversity. That's how he scolds his children for not wanting to do something, like watch TV with him. It's like "Too bad, but more for me then because I'm so great and you're not!" I like that attitude. Of course he too doesn't understand American life and is wed to the way things were in the old country. I never understood that attitude. Why come to a new county if you don't want things to change?
I don't agree with how the Shainmarks hid Nan's illness from Elizabeth and just sent Elizabeth away. They denied her precious moments with her grandmother. They didn't listen to what she wanted or what she was saying. They pushed their own interests and dreams on Elizabeth. Mrs. Shainmark is clearly having mental health issues. She's depressed and spends her days sitting inside knitting. As an introvert, she has difficulty making friends and pushing herself to get out there and try. Elizabeth’s mother is also caught between to cultures, like her daughter. She misses her home outside of Nottingham, her sister and family there. She misses her family traditions like Christmas and her colorful mother who has recently passed away from cancer. That has to be hard. She's struggling to adult which is hard. She wasn't a good cook to begin with and now seems to be struggling with the rest of the household tasks. It puts a huge burden on Elizabeth and that isn't right. Mrs. S also converted to Judaism but never quite fit in there either. She's treated like an outsider, even by her mother-in-law, who makes "jokes" about Mrs. S being a convert and therefore not knowing anything. This makes me so mad! My mom was not Italian or Catholic when she married my dad but she got Italianized pretty quickly. My grandmother was loving and nurturing and though her sons were tied to her apron strings, my mom learned a lot from watching and helping. I think Bubbe needs to help her daughter-in-law more.
Mr. Shainmark is partly to blame for his wife's problems. He doesn't stand by his wife when she needs him. He doesn't apply for family leave or time off. He claims they need the money from his job because Mom isn't working right now but she needs help. If he wants her to get back out there or to go off traveling for work, he should gently push his wife to seek treatment for her depression before it's too late. He doesn't see the problems the adults are creating for their kids. David, Elizabeth's goofy, robotics-obsessed older brother does, but like his parents, he chooses not to deal with it. Justin is too young to understand. I really do not like Mr. Shainmark except in the scene where he goes to vote and keeps his cool with Maddy's dad.
Mrs. Kluckowsi aka "Mrs. Kluk" is the Nazi of the family and consumer science (FACS) classroom. She acts like a dictator, controlling access and watching over Mrs. Hameed. It seems like she's just waiting and wishing for Mrs. Hameed to do something wrong so she has an excuse to get Mrs. Hameed fired. It seems like Mrs. Kluk is motivated by racism and prejudice. Perhaps though she's afraid and trying to protect her own job. Will kids be content with basic brownies, cookies and lumpy strawberry jam after this? Unfortunately she's not that nuanced. We do learn her motivation though and I do believe she's meant to be prejudiced against immigrants like Mrs. Hameed. Her character growth is not strong enough to please this adult reader. Maddy's parents, though never really seen, are the real villains of this story. They are the right-wing extremists who are anti-everything except "People Like Us (PLU)". This is incredibly hateful and hurtful. They make Sara feel unwelcome in her own country. They don't understand there is no "back where you came from." That's the whole point of immigration... to escape the dire situation in the homeland... like Elizabeth's family had no choice but to leave. They would have been exterminated. Maddy's parents probably would support that. I can't stand ignorant, prejudiced, confused bullies who seek to run the country and tell everyone what to be, do, say and think. I have some questions for them. Have they ever eaten pizza? a pasta dish? Tacos? Burritos? Sausage? Cinnamon buns? Challah YUMMM), latkes? perogies? ANYTHING? Because guess what? They're all foreign foods brought to this country by foreigners! There are very, very few foods that are the creations of white Americans from long ago. Yet Chinese food, so popular and beloved by many people, is American. I bet Maddy's parents never eat Chinese food and probably now say racist things about the owners of said Chinese food restaurants.
I hope kids read this book and take to heart the messages. It SHOULD be read by boys, girls, children 10+, adults, taught in schools with this handy educator guide https://saadiafaruqi.com/wp-content/u...
Home ec teachers could teach how to cook the recipes
https://saadiafaruqi.com/wp-content/u...
The book brings up good talking points for families as well. I had those conversations with my grandmother about where she came from, why they left, what they thought of America when they arrived. My nieces know those stories too and hopefully in time my nephews and cousins' kids will as well, although they don't remember/never met her.
Unfortunately, some kids will not have that opportunity to read and discuss this book with their peers. It is banned in classrooms in Wilkes County, North Carolina! I am unable to find a good reason why except that some parents raised questions about it. Um yes they should. There are a lot of GOOD questions to be raised, a lot of learning to be done and I don't buy the stupid Marxist Critical Race Theory excuse. It's a book people, about two girls from two different cultures. A book about food bringing people together.
Contains themes about:
racism
prejudice
parents’ expectations for their children
cultural difference
financial insecurity
citizenship
I don't see a problem with any of those and I have already recommended this to one middle school niece and I will see about recommending it to the other one.
This is really good and interesting. Yes people are racist and anti-Semitic. Read the book and learn from it "there are no 'People Like Us' only people." My only real complaints are that it takes too long to discuss the nuances of both girls' religions. How they dress is a personal choice for their families. A little more nuances of how there are Pakistanis who speak with "beautiful" (English) accents and sip tea and others, like Sara's mom, who don't speak English as a first language and speak with a heavy accent. Just as there are Jews like Elizabeth's family who don't allow piercings and don't keep kosher and Jews who do piercings and Jews who keep kosher. I would also have preferred Micah to be Latino-Jewish and not Latino AND Jewish. Showcasing the Jewish diaspora is important. Not all Jews come from Europe or Israel.
There's lots of cooking, mostly South Asian, to whet your appetite and introduce kids to new foods. While I don't like spicy foods, garlic or onions, I appreciated learning about another culture's cuisine. I also don't enjoy the Hot Pockets Elizabeth's family eats regularly but I LOVE tea and scones! I wanted to visit the International Food Festival at their school though and try some yummy foods, especially Maddy and Stephanie's. I fail to see how theirs qualifies as "international" though.
The characters are all pretty well-rounded though other than those few minor quibbles. I really liked Sara and Elizabeth and both their voices mostly sounded true. (Until Elizabeth gets "mushy" at the end.) I think my dad, growing up Italian-American post-WWII can probably relate to Sara. At first I didn't like Sara though. She was determined to be unfriendly and was prejudiced against white people. Yes many of us actually DO know where/when our families came from and grew up cooking and eating so-called foreign food. My family cooks with a lot of the same ingredients as Sara's family and like Sara, I wish the house did NOT smell like garlic all the time.
Sara is so prickly, but we can see as the story progresses, how she makes herself unfriendly as a defense mechanism. She feels very out of place in a super large, mostly white middle school. Previously she went to a tiny school affiliated with her mosque. She hasn't yet found her voice. She retreats into herself and her art to ease her anxieties. I did not like how snippy she was to Elizabeth when Elizabeth invited her trick-or-treating. SOME Muslims do go trick-or-treating and SOME Jews don't so how was Elizabeth supposed to know what Sara's family's rules are? All you have to do is sigh and say "I'm not allowed. It's like literally against my religion." And then Elizabeth could say "Technically mine too since Halloween has pagan and early Christian roots but we also celebrate Christmas with my mom's family even though we're Jewish so I'm allowed to go trick-or-treating." Yes they're kids but Sara didn't have to be rude about it.
Caught between two worlds, Sara sometimes loathes her family choices like fasting and not being allowed to trick-or-treat. Other times she loves them like when she prays alone. Sara is often exasperated by her twin brothers who are cute but lively. That's something many kids can relate to! Sara is also torn between her feelings as an American teenager and the filial obedience expected of her as a Pakistani Muslim daughter. Her parents want her to be a child and Sara knows too much about life to act like an innocent child any longer. She's experienced racist bullying, understands money troubles and is struggling to figure out who she is and what she wants to do with her life. She also longs for the way things used to be, before her mother started her own catering business, when life was more simple and fun. She was close to her mother then and now her mother barely has time for her. I think many tweens and teens can relate to her even if they're not first generation American or Pakistani.
Elizabeth is super likable from the get-go. She's perky, cheerful, optimistic and sometimes naïve but she's also wise beyond her years. She feels the family burdens, recognizes what's going on with her mother but as a kid, she feels powerless to help her family. Elizabeth is a cute nerd with a Doctor Who obsession. I couldn't get into the show when I tried it recently but I appreciate a good nerdy character. She also has a passion for cooking and enjoys trying new foods. She's the only girl and I would imagine that adds to her feelings of needing to be the problem solver. Elizabeth doesn't always get along with her older brother and I like that because it's realistic and I like that when she needs help, he's there for her. Her little brother, like Sara's brothers, is barely there except as a cute little hyperactive kid.
The girls did a bad bad thing and didn't fess up right away so some parents might complain about that. Mostly though it emphases a child's obedience to her parents' (Sara). It also shows how adult problems affect children too and sometimes kids take it upon themselves to fix the adult problems in ways they understand which doesn't always translate to filial obedience.
I love Sara's best friend Rabia! She's the kind of friend you want to have your back. They can hang out and watch YouTube videos together or shop at the mall, talk, tell stories. Rabia is feisty and funny. She can stand up to bullies and takes no punches from anyone. Even though she doesn't go to the same school as Sara, they have a shared history, a shared culture and will always be connected because of that. I like Elizabeth's pal Micah too. He's funny and creative. He takes his Jewish identity in stride and doesn't fuss about it. He's Jewish AND Latino and appreciates both sides. His Abuela is his favorite person in the world but he also goes to Hebrew School. I like his easy-going nature and that he isn't a weird, gross, middle school boy (yet?).
Maddy and Stephanie seem like the typical mean girls of middle school. I really am tired of the "my best friend changed over the summer" trope and the "if you just get to know the mean girl, you'll learn what she's going through that makes her that way" trope. Snore! However, I'm not the target audience and if helps girls figure out their relationships during the tough teen years, then OK I guess. I did like how the two girls surprised me, especially Stephanie. Maddy was kind of transparent. I feel bad for her but her character growth is pretty good. Stephanie is just kind of little miss perfect and I would TOTALLY hate her even if she was the nicest girl in school. I'm sure she's the one all the parents are admiring going "Why can't you be more like Stephanie?"
The adults are a little less nuanced than the kids but not so two-dimensional, with the exception of Maddy's parents. Sara's mother, Mrs. Hameed, is a busy lady. She owns her own catering business and is teaching this cooking club at the middle school, has three children, a husband and a house! I don't know where she finds the time and energy for all that but she does. It's clear she's passionate about cooking even if she thought of it as a way to make money at first. She wants more for her children though and makes sure they know it. Sometimes her rules are at odds with American culture and sometimes she doesn't understand what it's like for her daughter to be caught between two worlds. Sara's dad is hilarious. He is obsessed with the A-Team, an "old" show from the 80s and his catchphrase is "Pity the fool!" That's how he deals with racism and any other adversity. That's how he scolds his children for not wanting to do something, like watch TV with him. It's like "Too bad, but more for me then because I'm so great and you're not!" I like that attitude. Of course he too doesn't understand American life and is wed to the way things were in the old country. I never understood that attitude. Why come to a new county if you don't want things to change?
I don't agree with how the Shainmarks hid Nan's illness from Elizabeth and just sent Elizabeth away. They denied her precious moments with her grandmother. They didn't listen to what she wanted or what she was saying. They pushed their own interests and dreams on Elizabeth. Mrs. Shainmark is clearly having mental health issues. She's depressed and spends her days sitting inside knitting. As an introvert, she has difficulty making friends and pushing herself to get out there and try. Elizabeth’s mother is also caught between to cultures, like her daughter. She misses her home outside of Nottingham, her sister and family there. She misses her family traditions like Christmas and her colorful mother who has recently passed away from cancer. That has to be hard. She's struggling to adult which is hard. She wasn't a good cook to begin with and now seems to be struggling with the rest of the household tasks. It puts a huge burden on Elizabeth and that isn't right. Mrs. S also converted to Judaism but never quite fit in there either. She's treated like an outsider, even by her mother-in-law, who makes "jokes" about Mrs. S being a convert and therefore not knowing anything. This makes me so mad! My mom was not Italian or Catholic when she married my dad but she got Italianized pretty quickly. My grandmother was loving and nurturing and though her sons were tied to her apron strings, my mom learned a lot from watching and helping. I think Bubbe needs to help her daughter-in-law more.
Mr. Shainmark is partly to blame for his wife's problems. He doesn't stand by his wife when she needs him. He doesn't apply for family leave or time off. He claims they need the money from his job because Mom isn't working right now but she needs help. If he wants her to get back out there or to go off traveling for work, he should gently push his wife to seek treatment for her depression before it's too late. He doesn't see the problems the adults are creating for their kids. David, Elizabeth's goofy, robotics-obsessed older brother does, but like his parents, he chooses not to deal with it. Justin is too young to understand. I really do not like Mr. Shainmark except in the scene where he goes to vote and keeps his cool with Maddy's dad.
Mrs. Kluckowsi aka "Mrs. Kluk" is the Nazi of the family and consumer science (FACS) classroom. She acts like a dictator, controlling access and watching over Mrs. Hameed. It seems like she's just waiting and wishing for Mrs. Hameed to do something wrong so she has an excuse to get Mrs. Hameed fired. It seems like Mrs. Kluk is motivated by racism and prejudice. Perhaps though she's afraid and trying to protect her own job. Will kids be content with basic brownies, cookies and lumpy strawberry jam after this? Unfortunately she's not that nuanced. We do learn her motivation though and I do believe she's meant to be prejudiced against immigrants like Mrs. Hameed. Her character growth is not strong enough to please this adult reader. Maddy's parents, though never really seen, are the real villains of this story. They are the right-wing extremists who are anti-everything except "People Like Us (PLU)". This is incredibly hateful and hurtful. They make Sara feel unwelcome in her own country. They don't understand there is no "back where you came from." That's the whole point of immigration... to escape the dire situation in the homeland... like Elizabeth's family had no choice but to leave. They would have been exterminated. Maddy's parents probably would support that. I can't stand ignorant, prejudiced, confused bullies who seek to run the country and tell everyone what to be, do, say and think. I have some questions for them. Have they ever eaten pizza? a pasta dish? Tacos? Burritos? Sausage? Cinnamon buns? Challah YUMMM), latkes? perogies? ANYTHING? Because guess what? They're all foreign foods brought to this country by foreigners! There are very, very few foods that are the creations of white Americans from long ago. Yet Chinese food, so popular and beloved by many people, is American. I bet Maddy's parents never eat Chinese food and probably now say racist things about the owners of said Chinese food restaurants.
I hope kids read this book and take to heart the messages. It SHOULD be read by boys, girls, children 10+, adults, taught in schools with this handy educator guide https://saadiafaruqi.com/wp-content/u...
Home ec teachers could teach how to cook the recipes
https://saadiafaruqi.com/wp-content/u...
The book brings up good talking points for families as well. I had those conversations with my grandmother about where she came from, why they left, what they thought of America when they arrived. My nieces know those stories too and hopefully in time my nephews and cousins' kids will as well, although they don't remember/never met her.
Unfortunately, some kids will not have that opportunity to read and discuss this book with their peers. It is banned in classrooms in Wilkes County, North Carolina! I am unable to find a good reason why except that some parents raised questions about it. Um yes they should. There are a lot of GOOD questions to be raised, a lot of learning to be done and I don't buy the stupid Marxist Critical Race Theory excuse. It's a book people, about two girls from two different cultures. A book about food bringing people together.
Contains themes about:
racism
prejudice
parents’ expectations for their children
cultural difference
financial insecurity
citizenship
I don't see a problem with any of those and I have already recommended this to one middle school niece and I will see about recommending it to the other one.
December 17, 2019
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this story told in two different voices. Sara is Pakistani-American, and her mother is teaching a South Asian cooking class after school that she attends. Elizabeth is British-American and attends the class with the hope of learning how to make better meals for her family. The girls discover that both of their mothers are preparing to take their U.S. citizenship test, and bring them together with the hope that they can help each other study and prepare. In the process, they become tentative friends who have to learn how to trust, support, and understand each other and their respective cultures, and its effect on them as individuals.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
Merged review:
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this story told in two different voices. Sara is Pakistani-American, and her mother is teaching a South Asian cooking class after school that she attends. Elizabeth is British-American and attends the class with the hope of learning how to make better meals for her family. The girls discover that both of their mothers are preparing to take their U.S. citizenship test, and bring them together with the hope that they can help each other study and prepare. In the process, they become tentative friends who have to learn how to trust, support, and understand each other and their respective cultures, and its effect on them as individuals.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
Merged review:
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this story told in two different voices. Sara is Pakistani-American, and her mother is teaching a South Asian cooking class after school that she attends. Elizabeth is British-American and attends the class with the hope of learning how to make better meals for her family. The girls discover that both of their mothers are preparing to take their U.S. citizenship test, and bring them together with the hope that they can help each other study and prepare. In the process, they become tentative friends who have to learn how to trust, support, and understand each other and their respective cultures, and its effect on them as individuals.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
Merged review:
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this story told in two different voices. Sara is Pakistani-American, and her mother is teaching a South Asian cooking class after school that she attends. Elizabeth is British-American and attends the class with the hope of learning how to make better meals for her family. The girls discover that both of their mothers are preparing to take their U.S. citizenship test, and bring them together with the hope that they can help each other study and prepare. In the process, they become tentative friends who have to learn how to trust, support, and understand each other and their respective cultures, and its effect on them as individuals.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
Merged review:
I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this story told in two different voices. Sara is Pakistani-American, and her mother is teaching a South Asian cooking class after school that she attends. Elizabeth is British-American and attends the class with the hope of learning how to make better meals for her family. The girls discover that both of their mothers are preparing to take their U.S. citizenship test, and bring them together with the hope that they can help each other study and prepare. In the process, they become tentative friends who have to learn how to trust, support, and understand each other and their respective cultures, and its effect on them as individuals.
What I loved most about this story is how Sara teaches Elizabeth what it truly means to be an ally, and what that looks like. I think that's a valuable lesson for young readers (as well as adult ones) who don't understand what that term means and how to support a friend whose race is different from their own. I also love that food is such a big part of this story, and that the girls explore how to create a culinary fusion for the international cooking contest they enter. There is a lot of excellent discussion material in this story on big topics such as race, religion and immigration, but also friendship, family, and how to make choices to be the type of person you want to be.
I will definitely be adding this to our library's collection when it comes out in May.
December 2, 2020
Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan did a lovely job with this story. It flipped seamlessly between alternate points of view between Sara and Elizabeth. I loved how each character wanted to help each other with their struggle. As an immigrant who had to pass the citizenship test, I loved how this theme was highlighted in the book. Also the food descriptions made this book one that I especially savored. I also really enjoyed the depth of these characters. I liked how this book had real issues with strong girls that seemed real and relatable. I liked that this wasn't a book about boy-crazed girls, but girls who cared about their moms and strengthening their bonds with them. I read a lot of middle grade and found that part refreshing!
I also loved the fusion recipe they came up with- haven't tried it yet, but am going to pass on to my father who makes icecream.
Thank you Saadia and Laura for a beautiful book that addresses important issues like racism, depression, immigration, and more. This story was heartwarming and left me wanting more. In all, a delicious story meant to be savored!
I also loved the fusion recipe they came up with- haven't tried it yet, but am going to pass on to my father who makes icecream.
Thank you Saadia and Laura for a beautiful book that addresses important issues like racism, depression, immigration, and more. This story was heartwarming and left me wanting more. In all, a delicious story meant to be savored!
January 2, 2021
I like that this is a story about a burgeoning friendship that includes all the misunderstandings and hurt feelings that 6th grade friendships often do. And the conversations between Sara and Elizabeth—both the children of immigrant mothers—will be thought provoking for many young readers.
The flaws that kept me from rating this more favorably were the innumerable clunky similes and dated language. A smile is “a big hug I didn’t know I needed” in one instance and “rises like a sweet golden cake” in another. A song “take[s] ahold of [someone] like Selena Gomez’s latest single, luring [them] to the table.” And, in perhaps the most awkward comparison, a woman “flourishes a wooden spoon she’s holding, as if she’s the new Doctor Who and the spoon is the sonic screwdriver.” These comparisons felt crammed in, as if the writers were told to add figurative language after the draft was complete. I never quite believed that Sara and Elizabeth were middle schoolers; their behaviors and words often felt too stilted to be real.
Still, I will be happy to see kids reading this book. There’s a lot to admire about an intercultural friendship founded on food.
The flaws that kept me from rating this more favorably were the innumerable clunky similes and dated language. A smile is “a big hug I didn’t know I needed” in one instance and “rises like a sweet golden cake” in another. A song “take[s] ahold of [someone] like Selena Gomez’s latest single, luring [them] to the table.” And, in perhaps the most awkward comparison, a woman “flourishes a wooden spoon she’s holding, as if she’s the new Doctor Who and the spoon is the sonic screwdriver.” These comparisons felt crammed in, as if the writers were told to add figurative language after the draft was complete. I never quite believed that Sara and Elizabeth were middle schoolers; their behaviors and words often felt too stilted to be real.
Still, I will be happy to see kids reading this book. There’s a lot to admire about an intercultural friendship founded on food.
March 1, 2022
Another opportunity for mixing students of different backgrounds.
Sara has transferred from her Muslim academy to a public school closer to home, for safety issues.
Elizabeth has been "ditched" by her "forever best friend" for the school's "cupcake queen".
The two are thrown together in the after-school cooking class, which is led by Sara's mother, at first these two have major tensions between them.
Over the course of time, the two discover they have one major thing in common --- both their mothers have been putting off studying to take the required test to become American citizens.
Putting their heads together they get their mothers to start studying for the test --- along the way Sara and Elizabeth put aside their differences and become friends.
I liked that Saadi Faruqi co-authored this book with Laura Shovan, the two blended their own different backgrounds to show how cultural differences can be put aside, and friendships can be made.
Sara has transferred from her Muslim academy to a public school closer to home, for safety issues.
Elizabeth has been "ditched" by her "forever best friend" for the school's "cupcake queen".
The two are thrown together in the after-school cooking class, which is led by Sara's mother, at first these two have major tensions between them.
Over the course of time, the two discover they have one major thing in common --- both their mothers have been putting off studying to take the required test to become American citizens.
Putting their heads together they get their mothers to start studying for the test --- along the way Sara and Elizabeth put aside their differences and become friends.
I liked that Saadi Faruqi co-authored this book with Laura Shovan, the two blended their own different backgrounds to show how cultural differences can be put aside, and friendships can be made.
March 6, 2021
I thought this book was great! I learned a lot about muslim and pakistani culture, and it makes me want to cook pakistani food! I liked the different unique aspects, and I liked the ending. the only thing i didn't like is how sometimes Elizabeth and Sara were too similar. I know they had very different lives, but their views on things were very similar. They are both pretty religious, they both have two brothers, and they are both having money problems. Sometimes I would forget who's perspective the chapter was from and I couldn't figure it out. It didn't wow me, and I wasn't amazed, but overall, I loved it, especially the end.
November 29, 2020
I really enjoyed the dual voices and the way both girls brought things that concerned them to the discussion. These feelings of being different because of religion or family money issues or cultural differences or mental health reasons, should be talked about instead of being hushed. Both authors did a great job of that and putting it together into a single story.
December 19, 2020
I'm so glad this book exists in our world! There is so much about it that is fun, and so much that is important. I loved both characters as individuals, and I loved seeing their friendship work its way past the rocky parts to the steady parts. Plus...the FOOD!
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