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American as Paneer Pie
An Indian American girl navigates prejudice in her small town and learns the power of her own voice in this brilliant gem of a middle grade novel full of humor and heart, perfect for fans of Front Desk and Amina’s Voice.
As the only Indian American kid in her small town, Lekha Divekar feels like she has two versions of herself: Home Lekha, who loves watching Bollywood movies and eating Indian food, and School Lekha, who pins her hair over her bindi birthmark and avoids confrontation at all costs, especially when someone teases her for being Indian.
When a girl Lekha’s age moves in across the street, Lekha is excited to hear that her name is Avantika and she’s Desi, too! Finally, there will be someone else around who gets it. But as soon as Avantika speaks, Lekha realizes she has an accent. She’s new to this country, and not at all like Lekha.
To Lekha’s surprise, Avantika does not feel the same way as Lekha about having two separate lives or about the bullying at school. Avantika doesn’t take the bullying quietly. And she proudly displays her culture no matter where she is: at home or at school.
When a racist incident rocks Lekha’s community, Lekha realizes she must make a choice: continue to remain silent or find her voice before it’s too late.
As the only Indian American kid in her small town, Lekha Divekar feels like she has two versions of herself: Home Lekha, who loves watching Bollywood movies and eating Indian food, and School Lekha, who pins her hair over her bindi birthmark and avoids confrontation at all costs, especially when someone teases her for being Indian.
When a girl Lekha’s age moves in across the street, Lekha is excited to hear that her name is Avantika and she’s Desi, too! Finally, there will be someone else around who gets it. But as soon as Avantika speaks, Lekha realizes she has an accent. She’s new to this country, and not at all like Lekha.
To Lekha’s surprise, Avantika does not feel the same way as Lekha about having two separate lives or about the bullying at school. Avantika doesn’t take the bullying quietly. And she proudly displays her culture no matter where she is: at home or at school.
When a racist incident rocks Lekha’s community, Lekha realizes she must make a choice: continue to remain silent or find her voice before it’s too late.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published June 9, 2020
42 people are currently reading
2533 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 315 reviews
April 16, 2023
Lekha is the only Indian American kid in her whole town. She’s proud of her own Indian culture. When she’s safely at home. When she’s out of the house, she tries to hide her origins as much as possible. Because other kids tease and bully her for simply being different. When another Indian girl comes to live in her town, she couldn’t be happier. Finally, someone to share her love of her Indian culture with besides her own family. Someone who understands what she’s going through. But the other girl just moved to the country from India. She wasn’t born in America like Lekha was. And Lekha is sad to see that while she’s not exactly an American girl, she’s also not an Indian girl either. When a major racist incident occurs, Lekha is faced with a choice. Will she hide in the shadows like she’s been doing for years? Or will she find her own voice and speak up?
This book is all about an immigrant kid’s struggles. She was born in America but her parents are from India. She doesn’t feel like she’s truly part of either culture, when in reality she’s part of both. And she should be able to be proud of both. This is not necessarily a story about racism, though that is of course part of it. It’s more about Lekha struggling to fit in because she looks different, in an important phase of her life where she’s still searching for her own identity. That’s a universal theme anyone should be able to understand.
What’s most important for people to fit in, is how their environment treats them. This is made apparent by the kids who’ve been in Lekha’s class for years, and yet they still mispronounce her name. Or how the kids always laugh and look down on her when she says something in another language. Or even by her own father who asks Lekha to take care of the new girl. Because the new girl will get bullied for being different. Even though Lekha doesn’t fit in in the first place. She’s unable to stand up for herself, how can she be expected to stand up for someone else? It also doesn’t help that her father thinks that her struggles are nothing compared to the other girl’s struggles, or even to his own struggles when he moved to America.
One thing of note, while reading this book you’re going to be craving Indian food like you wouldn’t believe. I’m not kidding, the bountiful descriptions of Indian food are very detailed and simply to lick your fingers off delicious. You have been warned.
Overall, anyone’s who’s ever struggled to fit in will easily be able to identify themselves with Lekha in this beautiful and important story. If you are an immigrant, this will show you that you’re not alone in your struggles. And if you aren’t, this will hopefully help you understand and be more mindful of their struggles.
This book is all about an immigrant kid’s struggles. She was born in America but her parents are from India. She doesn’t feel like she’s truly part of either culture, when in reality she’s part of both. And she should be able to be proud of both. This is not necessarily a story about racism, though that is of course part of it. It’s more about Lekha struggling to fit in because she looks different, in an important phase of her life where she’s still searching for her own identity. That’s a universal theme anyone should be able to understand.
What’s most important for people to fit in, is how their environment treats them. This is made apparent by the kids who’ve been in Lekha’s class for years, and yet they still mispronounce her name. Or how the kids always laugh and look down on her when she says something in another language. Or even by her own father who asks Lekha to take care of the new girl. Because the new girl will get bullied for being different. Even though Lekha doesn’t fit in in the first place. She’s unable to stand up for herself, how can she be expected to stand up for someone else? It also doesn’t help that her father thinks that her struggles are nothing compared to the other girl’s struggles, or even to his own struggles when he moved to America.
One thing of note, while reading this book you’re going to be craving Indian food like you wouldn’t believe. I’m not kidding, the bountiful descriptions of Indian food are very detailed and simply to lick your fingers off delicious. You have been warned.
Overall, anyone’s who’s ever struggled to fit in will easily be able to identify themselves with Lekha in this beautiful and important story. If you are an immigrant, this will show you that you’re not alone in your struggles. And if you aren’t, this will hopefully help you understand and be more mindful of their struggles.
October 19, 2020
October 18, 2020: Absolutely loved this! I wish I had this book when I was a kid.
Representation: Indian-American (Marathi) MC; Homeland Indian side character who recently moved to America.
Ownvoices reader as: Indian born on foreign soil.
Trigger warnings: Microaggression, verbal bullying, racism, xenophobic political ideology, hate crime.
↦ the silent desi kid gradually learns to speak up against the discrimination.
↦ judgemental opinions among a minority group are challenged when Lekha realises how wrongly she treated Avantika, the new neighbour's kid, for her accent.
↦ a supportive friendship with a white boy who greatly understands the meaning of being an ally.
↦ being torn between the two identities a diaspora kid has to live through as Lekha wonders if the team bonding session is more important or the Hindu festival of Diwali that is just another day on American ground.
↦ hate crimes and casual racism that perpetuates from a political leader spreading a nationalistic and xenophobic ideology.
↦ peer pressure expecting Lekha to do all the things her mother, her culture, her religion wouldn't allow, just because she was now in America.
↦ a mother's worry in the midst of racial tension and hostility and a father's repeated teachings of standing up together against such views and opinions.
↦ on the fun part: amazing food mentions; Bollywood movie suggestions, dance, friendship goals, passion for swimming, and a once-and-for-all explanation around why desi hair needs coconut oil.
↦ ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE.
Representation: Indian-American (Marathi) MC; Homeland Indian side character who recently moved to America.
Ownvoices reader as: Indian born on foreign soil.
Trigger warnings: Microaggression, verbal bullying, racism, xenophobic political ideology, hate crime.
↦ the silent desi kid gradually learns to speak up against the discrimination.
↦ judgemental opinions among a minority group are challenged when Lekha realises how wrongly she treated Avantika, the new neighbour's kid, for her accent.
↦ a supportive friendship with a white boy who greatly understands the meaning of being an ally.
↦ being torn between the two identities a diaspora kid has to live through as Lekha wonders if the team bonding session is more important or the Hindu festival of Diwali that is just another day on American ground.
↦ hate crimes and casual racism that perpetuates from a political leader spreading a nationalistic and xenophobic ideology.
↦ peer pressure expecting Lekha to do all the things her mother, her culture, her religion wouldn't allow, just because she was now in America.
↦ a mother's worry in the midst of racial tension and hostility and a father's repeated teachings of standing up together against such views and opinions.
↦ on the fun part: amazing food mentions; Bollywood movie suggestions, dance, friendship goals, passion for swimming, and a once-and-for-all explanation around why desi hair needs coconut oil.
↦ ABSOLUTE FAVOURITE.
Want to read
June 10, 2020Did someone say Paneer?
February 4, 2020
Lekha was an Indian-American living in a small town an hour away from Detroit. She was used to fielding racist comments from her classmates and microaggressions from teachers, and instead of confronting them, Lekha has ignored them and tried not to attract attention. So when Avantika moves to town and started challenging the casual racism, Lekha feels both conflicted and exposed, yet also happy to have someone else who can share her love of Bollywood movies and Indian food.
More casual racism pops up throughout town as a local politician runs a senatorial campaign on an eerily real-life "us versus them" platform. And Lekha also qualifies for a competitive swim team, whose team members quickly urge her to be more "American" and ditch Avantika.
I'm East-Asian, not South Asian, but so much of what happens to Lekha and her family resonated with me. I admit to acting just like Lekha's mom on occasion, trying desperately just to keep her family safe in a world that seems increasingly hostile and dangerous. Yes, I've used curbside groceries for the reason her mom did! Lekha's path to speaking her truth was monumental, filled with kindness, and so very brave. I feel that this is an important book, and I will definitely buy a copy for my children.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
More casual racism pops up throughout town as a local politician runs a senatorial campaign on an eerily real-life "us versus them" platform. And Lekha also qualifies for a competitive swim team, whose team members quickly urge her to be more "American" and ditch Avantika.
I'm East-Asian, not South Asian, but so much of what happens to Lekha and her family resonated with me. I admit to acting just like Lekha's mom on occasion, trying desperately just to keep her family safe in a world that seems increasingly hostile and dangerous. Yes, I've used curbside groceries for the reason her mom did! Lekha's path to speaking her truth was monumental, filled with kindness, and so very brave. I feel that this is an important book, and I will definitely buy a copy for my children.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.
August 12, 2024
desi girls are so slay
January 16, 2021
This is a book I wish I had read as a kid. If I could go back in time, this book would be a gift to myself.
So much emotion, so well thought out. 5 stars feels like too little for this masterpiece.
So much emotion, so well thought out. 5 stars feels like too little for this masterpiece.
November 2, 2021
Lekha is a young, quiet Indian American teen who feels split between two worlds; her Indian traditions which she practices at home, with her Indian friends in Detroit and with her new friend Avantika & her desire to fit in with her fellow classmates at school, especially Harper, Aidy and Kendall, the girls from her swim team. Can Lekha balance the two? Is being outspoken like Avantika the solution? How far will she go to prove to her swim team that she is one of them?
Give this story to anyone who is looking for school stories, especially fans of Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan's Save Me a Seat or Amina's Voice by Hena Khan.
Give this story to anyone who is looking for school stories, especially fans of Sarah Weeks and Gita Varadarajan's Save Me a Seat or Amina's Voice by Hena Khan.
December 3, 2020
Beautiful. Truly was perfect from the very first pages to the last. I am a sucker for a shy girl standing up for herself so when Lekha did it was beyond perfect. I didn't expect to connect to her so much but the thing about not correcting people when they say your name wrong - that is me till this day. I find my name so easy to say but I always get Andrea... Of course, I connected with her shy nature because that's totally me as well. I loved how much Lekha grew as a person and all that she learned. Her friendship and biases regarding Avantika brought on great discussions that can be easily be used with any American born and Immigrant families within the same culture. Everything this book was, was perfect.
May 12, 2021
The last two chapters 😭😭😭😭
June 30, 2020
This book spoke to me as a first generation Indian American. With heart, humor and hope Lekha learns how to balance her home self and her school self, along with learning how to speak out against racism in her community, and then balancing old and new Lekha. Being a first generation child isndificult no matter what, as you are always seesawing between the 2 cultures, and seemingly never “enough” of either. I love how this story shed light on what it feels like, how it’s not always easy to speak up and how to be you anyways. Also loved the bindis, shiny things, Bollywood references, and foods mentioned (I really want bhel now)!
Merged review:
This book spoke to me as a first generation Indian American. With heart, humor, and hope Lekha learns how to balance her home self and her school self, along with learning how to speak out against racism in her community, and then balancing old (quiet) and new (speaks up) Lekha. Being a first generation child is difficult no matter what, as you are always seesawing between the 2 cultures, and seemingly never “enough” of either. I love how this story shed light on what it feels like, how it’s not always easy to speak up and how to be you anyways. Also loved the bindis, shiny things, Bollywood references, and foods mentioned (I really want bhel and paneer now)!
Merged review:
This book spoke to me as a first generation Indian American. With heart, humor, and hope Lekha learns how to balance her home self and her school self, along with learning how to speak out against racism in her community, and then balancing old (quiet) and new (speaks up) Lekha. Being a first generation child is difficult no matter what, as you are always seesawing between the 2 cultures, and seemingly never “enough” of either. I love how this story shed light on what it feels like, how it’s not always easy to speak up and how to be you anyways. Also loved the bindis, shiny things, Bollywood references, and foods mentioned (I really want bhel and paneer now)!
September 19, 2022
This was PHENOMENAL! Definitely one of my favorite reads of 2021!
[REVIEW]
*Trigger/content warnings in this book for colorism, hate crimes, micro-aggressions, racism, verbal bullying, and xenophobia*
American as Paneer Pie is officially one of my favorite books of 2021, but I cannot tell you how much I loved it without spoiling it. And while I’m VERY tempted to to hit the spoiler button, I won’t, because I need to convince you go out and read it!
American as Paneer Pie tackles racism, colorism, microaggressions, and so many other topics through the lens of a child—our protagonist, Lekha. I absolutely loved Lekha, and I loved reading about her character arc. I loved reading about her parents (who were THE BEST!) and her best friends Noah and Avatika (who is such an AWESOME friend and my favorite character by far!). I especially loved how this book centers around themes such as friendship, embracing who you are, standing up for what’s right, and knowing that you CAN make a difference (and that even small actions can make a difference!). Please go read this!!!
[REVIEW]
*Trigger/content warnings in this book for colorism, hate crimes, micro-aggressions, racism, verbal bullying, and xenophobia*
American as Paneer Pie is officially one of my favorite books of 2021, but I cannot tell you how much I loved it without spoiling it. And while I’m VERY tempted to to hit the spoiler button, I won’t, because I need to convince you go out and read it!
American as Paneer Pie tackles racism, colorism, microaggressions, and so many other topics through the lens of a child—our protagonist, Lekha. I absolutely loved Lekha, and I loved reading about her character arc. I loved reading about her parents (who were THE BEST!) and her best friends Noah and Avatika (who is such an AWESOME friend and my favorite character by far!). I especially loved how this book centers around themes such as friendship, embracing who you are, standing up for what’s right, and knowing that you CAN make a difference (and that even small actions can make a difference!). Please go read this!!!
December 5, 2019
Thank you to Simon and Schuster Ed/Library team for sharing American As Paneer Pie with Collabookation.
Lekha has been the only Indian kid in her Michigan suburb for her entire life. Which means that for her entire school career, she's been called Dot, asked why she smells, and been outcasted/dismissed by most classmates. Except for her best friend and next door neighbor, Noah, Lekha is on her own to survive the mistreatment from her peers. Luckily she has a supportive mom and dad, and some friends in nearby Detroit who share her Indian culture.
Enter a new neighbor, Avantika, who is also Indian. But on her first day of school, Avantika couldn't be more different in handling rude classmates - she stands up to them. Just as Lekha begins to appreicate her new friend and how comforting it is to have someone who understands everything she's going through, Lekha makes the ultra competitive swim team. Lekha soon has to figure out if she wants to fit in with her team or risk being attached to Avantika by way of their background.
This entire story is set against the backdrop of a contentious statewide election in which the slogan of the winning candidate is "Don't Like It? Leave."
I love books that are able to balance the macro environment with the micro in an adolescent's life, and this book is a perfect example. The microagressions Lehka has handled with grace her entire academic life are now seeping into the life of her family and the public. She has to see bumper stickers on classmates' parents' cars. She has to walk by signs on neighbors' lawns. And she has to decide when and how she is going to stand up against the bitterness and hate that begins to invade her entire life.
American As Paneer Pie could be the story of my upstate NY town - we had one Indian boy who transferred out of our schools before he hit middle school. We had one African American boy who was known as "Black Tony." I think there may be readers who think that the world Kelkar presents is unrealistic, but I beg (literally begggg) of them to not dismiss this book. As much as we all would love to think we've made gains in areas of diversity, it harms our students to not continue the work of understanding and appreciating the many different facets of humanity in our schools, while naming/acknowledging how microaggressions can wear on one's soul.
I thank Supriya Kelkar for writing this book, and I can't wait to offer it to my students. Also, might have to order some Indian takeout when I booktalk this one! As the title might suggest, food is a strong theme throughout. Thankfully, recipes are included.
Highly recommended for students in grade 5 and up.
Lekha has been the only Indian kid in her Michigan suburb for her entire life. Which means that for her entire school career, she's been called Dot, asked why she smells, and been outcasted/dismissed by most classmates. Except for her best friend and next door neighbor, Noah, Lekha is on her own to survive the mistreatment from her peers. Luckily she has a supportive mom and dad, and some friends in nearby Detroit who share her Indian culture.
Enter a new neighbor, Avantika, who is also Indian. But on her first day of school, Avantika couldn't be more different in handling rude classmates - she stands up to them. Just as Lekha begins to appreicate her new friend and how comforting it is to have someone who understands everything she's going through, Lekha makes the ultra competitive swim team. Lekha soon has to figure out if she wants to fit in with her team or risk being attached to Avantika by way of their background.
This entire story is set against the backdrop of a contentious statewide election in which the slogan of the winning candidate is "Don't Like It? Leave."
I love books that are able to balance the macro environment with the micro in an adolescent's life, and this book is a perfect example. The microagressions Lehka has handled with grace her entire academic life are now seeping into the life of her family and the public. She has to see bumper stickers on classmates' parents' cars. She has to walk by signs on neighbors' lawns. And she has to decide when and how she is going to stand up against the bitterness and hate that begins to invade her entire life.
American As Paneer Pie could be the story of my upstate NY town - we had one Indian boy who transferred out of our schools before he hit middle school. We had one African American boy who was known as "Black Tony." I think there may be readers who think that the world Kelkar presents is unrealistic, but I beg (literally begggg) of them to not dismiss this book. As much as we all would love to think we've made gains in areas of diversity, it harms our students to not continue the work of understanding and appreciating the many different facets of humanity in our schools, while naming/acknowledging how microaggressions can wear on one's soul.
I thank Supriya Kelkar for writing this book, and I can't wait to offer it to my students. Also, might have to order some Indian takeout when I booktalk this one! As the title might suggest, food is a strong theme throughout. Thankfully, recipes are included.
Highly recommended for students in grade 5 and up.
June 26, 2020
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I always love reading a good story that focuses on tolerance and acceptance towards anyone different from us. American as Paneer Pie shows the issues some Indian-Americans feel from being uncomfortable in their own skin, even if they are born there.
The author did a wonderful job with this book. She wrote all the characters in a delightful way. I enjoyed Lekha as the main character and could relate to her. Even as an adult, we sometimes don’t have the courage to stand up for what is right. Moreover, the story highlights that even though we don’t have to completely step out of bubble, just a small step could start a ripple effect in the right direction. It shows how we need to embrace our identity and not let others bully us. Moreover, as an Indian, I loved all the Indian references about the food, cultures and traditions.
However, my only criticism is that I felt the plethora of Indian references might throw off few readers not accustomed to the culture. Some of the terms did not have a glossary or description, and while I understood and enjoyed it, I feel it would have confused others. Also, even though I understand why the mother was paranoid for her family, I didn’t understand how she suddenly changed her mind. Moreover, I felt like Avantika was a very interesting character, but we don’t see much of her.
Apart from that, I really enjoyed reading this story. I think the author has a wonderful talent for showcasing American Indian characters, and look forward to reading some of her other works.
September 3, 2020
Supriya Kelkar has a way with her words, as it was so easy to connect with Lekha from the first few pages. Lehka is an Indian-American girl who feels like she can't blend her two different lives together. She was born in the US, but her home life is 100% Desi. When she goes to school she doesn't blend in, instead she is teased. A rude white boy named Liam calls her "Dot" because of her bindi birthmark. He also makes unruly remarks about her smell, and she just can't seem to get away from him. Not only does she have problems at school with her culture, but she also does in her community. An anti-immigrant white lady is running for Congress and is known for her phrase "Don't like it? LEAVE". Lehka is always running into issues with finding her voice and her identity. What I love about this story is how Lehka slowly, but surely overcomes her identity struggles and finds the power of her voice. The beauty from seeing her from the beginning to the end is special. Kelkar has many cultural references that I know readers who can relate to Lehka will enjoy, and will even intrigue readers who may not know what bhel or paneer food is, or even Bollywood movies. I had to do some research throughout and I thoroughly enjoyed it! This will be a great read for kids in 5th grade and up.
January 10, 2021
I love the representation in this!! I'm not sure if it's accurate, but it felt like it! So many Indian foods, trust me, I'm going to be searching them up so I can figure out what I'm making today. I really love seeing new cultures, and I don't understand people who just hate people for being different. Their life and culture is so cool, and if you just spend a minute to appreciate it, you'd maybe learn that they're actually pretty awesome people.
The political situation reminded me so much of the mess that was (and still is) the US, Georgia and DC specifically, a few days ago. People can be so mean and hateful sometimes, I don't even understand it. Like come on, other cultures and customs can be SO cool!! Why can't people take a minute to appreciate that?
I liked Avantika and Lekha a lot, and I love the friendship they shared with Noah. And did I say I loved the Indian and Hindu representation? Cause it was awesome!! I learned so much about their religion and customs, and I just loved it.
full rtc!
The political situation reminded me so much of the mess that was (and still is) the US, Georgia and DC specifically, a few days ago. People can be so mean and hateful sometimes, I don't even understand it. Like come on, other cultures and customs can be SO cool!! Why can't people take a minute to appreciate that?
I liked Avantika and Lekha a lot, and I love the friendship they shared with Noah. And did I say I loved the Indian and Hindu representation? Cause it was awesome!! I learned so much about their religion and customs, and I just loved it.
full rtc!
November 25, 2020
This was such a great middle grade book exploring what happens when people in power (in this case the Senator) show hate towards people of other races and religions. It hows how fear fuels hate. It shows the importance of being a good ally and not quietly standing by or letting hate go unchecked. It was a very powerful message.
I learned so much more about Indian culture from this book, which surprised me because I read a lot about India, my sister-in-law married a man from Indian descent (they had an Indian wedding), and I eat a lot of Indian food. I realized though that I mainly know a lot of Indian folklore and myths. While I know the main holy days or holidays, I didn't know all the little traditions within each of these holidays. It was great to learn more about another culture.
Also, I'm so excited to make the recipe from the book because Paneer is one of my favorite things. If you haven't had Saag Paneer then I highly recommend it.
I learned so much more about Indian culture from this book, which surprised me because I read a lot about India, my sister-in-law married a man from Indian descent (they had an Indian wedding), and I eat a lot of Indian food. I realized though that I mainly know a lot of Indian folklore and myths. While I know the main holy days or holidays, I didn't know all the little traditions within each of these holidays. It was great to learn more about another culture.
Also, I'm so excited to make the recipe from the book because Paneer is one of my favorite things. If you haven't had Saag Paneer then I highly recommend it.
February 26, 2020
Thanks to School Library Journal for the ARC!
Brava to the author and the main character, Lehka. So refreshing and so genuine. Definitely planning to purchase for my library. My only request would be that the Indian foods, clothing, and other terms were more explained or had a glossary. I sometimes felt as 'out of it' as I'm sure an immigrant feels here; perhaps, there was a reason for not having one?
Brava to the author and the main character, Lehka. So refreshing and so genuine. Definitely planning to purchase for my library. My only request would be that the Indian foods, clothing, and other terms were more explained or had a glossary. I sometimes felt as 'out of it' as I'm sure an immigrant feels here; perhaps, there was a reason for not having one?
June 16, 2021
American as Paneer Pie was a really good book! The story follows Lekha an India American who feels self conscious about who she is. She hides the things that make her unique to avoid being questioned or teased. When a new girl from India moves across the Lekha is happy and relieved that she will finally be close to someone that gets her. By surprise she learns that the new girl, Avantika has an accent but isn’t afraid to show her culture to others and stand up for it. When a racist event happens to her home Lekha must learn how to use her voice and stand up for herself. I loved this book and would give it a 5/5 stars! I’d recommend it for 6th-8th graders who are looking for a good book about identifying who you are.
July 30, 2023
I loved this book! Lekha was easy to relate to: ups and downs in friendships, navigating the tumultuous world of middle school, trying to be herself and fitting in. Winters, the Congresswoman, is eerily similar to several politicians in our state and federal governments. It was a fast read and a good one; this book is one I'll probably reread in the future.
March 22, 2021
This book has been on my TBR for so long, so I’m glad I finally read it. But, while I liked the plot, I couldn’t really understand the main character’s motives and decisions. Everything felt so fast paced, like something would be happening in one paragraph and completely change in the next. 3.5⭐️
March 21, 2021
This book was fantastic. I can't express just how much I enjoyed it. I don't think I've ever seen myself completely in a story the way I did here. It was literally like my life on the page. It was AMAZING!
All the racial digs the main character, Lekha encounters in this book, I've heard them all first hand as have so many other Indian kids. To this day, I worry if I smell like curry and not even realize it...I used to put coconut oil in my hair too and quickly stopped. All because of childhood teasing.
I'm glad Supriya Kelkar wrote this story. It'll definitely help the new generation of Indian kids be comfortable with themselves and be proud of who they are.
The hate crimes in this book also resonate harder too after the Atlanta shooting recently as well as seeing the spike in attacks on Asian Americans over this past year. It reminds me of the attacks on Indians after 9/11. Just awful.
Something else I admired about this story was how Kelkar makes Lekha judge another Indian the way her classmates judged her where she thought she was "better" because she was an American-born Indian and her new neighbor was an immigrant with an accent. Then, she realizes how wrong she was and that her thinking like that makes her no better than her classmates. It's a small part of the overall story but important.
Highly recommend this book.
All the racial digs the main character, Lekha encounters in this book, I've heard them all first hand as have so many other Indian kids. To this day, I worry if I smell like curry and not even realize it...I used to put coconut oil in my hair too and quickly stopped. All because of childhood teasing.
I'm glad Supriya Kelkar wrote this story. It'll definitely help the new generation of Indian kids be comfortable with themselves and be proud of who they are.
The hate crimes in this book also resonate harder too after the Atlanta shooting recently as well as seeing the spike in attacks on Asian Americans over this past year. It reminds me of the attacks on Indians after 9/11. Just awful.
Something else I admired about this story was how Kelkar makes Lekha judge another Indian the way her classmates judged her where she thought she was "better" because she was an American-born Indian and her new neighbor was an immigrant with an accent. Then, she realizes how wrong she was and that her thinking like that makes her no better than her classmates. It's a small part of the overall story but important.
Highly recommend this book.
June 16, 2021
This was another great relatable read I got to experience with my daughter.
July 1, 2020
I am not a teenage girl, and I was not born in a country where my forefathers (and mothers) could not trace they ancestry back to, but there was something so relatable about this book that I read it in almost one stretch, wanting to see it all the way through. The one bias I might have had is that I spoke a different language at home than the city I lived in throughout my schooling(which was entirely in English). I was so shy that I refused to make mistakes enough to speak the local language and for someone outside of India it would be hard to imagine the impact that can have on one’s social life even in the simplest terms. By the time I school was ending, I found a larger crowd of people who accepted (however grudgingly) that I probably would not reply in any other language than English. All of this endeared Lekha to me because in some ways, in my own little world, I was her.
It is not easy to be comfortable in your own skin, and Lekha learns the hard way. This is an ideal book for those families who do not wholly conform to the western pattern. I loved the fact that the idea of her maintaining her families tradition of being vegetarian (because she believes in the logic of it) and although she cringes at having to explain it to her fellow Americans. The family dynamic was soothing and loving while having a strict enough backbone. It is not a big book, so I will only mention one more thing with regards to the storyline. Lekha is a first-generation American, born in the US but completely ‘Desi’ at home. She encounters, for the first time, a girl from the very same family background as her but is comfortable about it and her family has just moved to their corner of the US.
It was simply written, with enough explanations to those who are not familiar with some of the words used, there is a lot of foody descriptions that had my stomach rumbling. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes reading books aimed at a middle-grade audience or books about being different.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers. The review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
It is not easy to be comfortable in your own skin, and Lekha learns the hard way. This is an ideal book for those families who do not wholly conform to the western pattern. I loved the fact that the idea of her maintaining her families tradition of being vegetarian (because she believes in the logic of it) and although she cringes at having to explain it to her fellow Americans. The family dynamic was soothing and loving while having a strict enough backbone. It is not a big book, so I will only mention one more thing with regards to the storyline. Lekha is a first-generation American, born in the US but completely ‘Desi’ at home. She encounters, for the first time, a girl from the very same family background as her but is comfortable about it and her family has just moved to their corner of the US.
It was simply written, with enough explanations to those who are not familiar with some of the words used, there is a lot of foody descriptions that had my stomach rumbling. I highly recommend this to anyone who likes reading books aimed at a middle-grade audience or books about being different.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers. The review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
July 15, 2020
I have so many words for this book.
Neither of the two protagonists' experience mirrors my own childhood growing up Indian-American in a very white world. However, that did not stop me from seeing parts of my experience in this book. We often overlook how important belonging and significance are in the human experience. Lehka's account of not feeling belonging in her school or even completely feeling belonging with her Indian friends was extremely familiar to me. The way she tries to make herself invisible at school - not voicing an opinion, not correcting people when they make mistakes with her name - those were so familiar to me as well. Avantika knows belonging from having lived in India, but struggles with the colorism she has experienced all her life. Both girls teach the other about belonging to yourself - which is a really hard concept to embrace as an adolescent - and as an adult. I so appreciate that this story is out there, and want to give the book to every middle grader I know. We all struggle with belonging and significance at some point in our lives, some more than others - having Lehka's story to reflect upon might make it easier for a young reader to understand.
Neither of the two protagonists' experience mirrors my own childhood growing up Indian-American in a very white world. However, that did not stop me from seeing parts of my experience in this book. We often overlook how important belonging and significance are in the human experience. Lehka's account of not feeling belonging in her school or even completely feeling belonging with her Indian friends was extremely familiar to me. The way she tries to make herself invisible at school - not voicing an opinion, not correcting people when they make mistakes with her name - those were so familiar to me as well. Avantika knows belonging from having lived in India, but struggles with the colorism she has experienced all her life. Both girls teach the other about belonging to yourself - which is a really hard concept to embrace as an adolescent - and as an adult. I so appreciate that this story is out there, and want to give the book to every middle grader I know. We all struggle with belonging and significance at some point in our lives, some more than others - having Lehka's story to reflect upon might make it easier for a young reader to understand.
July 12, 2020
What a fabulous and timely book! I love the whole story, the characters, and especially the word play! The descriptions were amazing- I was constantly hungry while reading this book! I renewed my love of Indian music and gained knowledge of dance, clothing, holidays, and more culture.
The overall theme of finding your voice and standing up for yourself mixed well with the topic of xenophobia and nationalism in politics.
I gained more knowledge and will constantly improve my teaching because of this book.
If you liked Save Me a Seat, Amina's Voice, or Ban This Book, you should love this one too!
The overall theme of finding your voice and standing up for yourself mixed well with the topic of xenophobia and nationalism in politics.
I gained more knowledge and will constantly improve my teaching because of this book.
If you liked Save Me a Seat, Amina's Voice, or Ban This Book, you should love this one too!
June 24, 2020
I stayed up way past my bed time to finish this one and then spent a bunch of time today urging people to read AMERICAN AS PANEER PIE. I loved everything about this book. The writing, the very realistic characters, the plot. And this book is so timely. If you are looking for a book that examines racism, microagressions, politics, complicity but does so in the context of an engaging story, pick this one up for you AND your kids.
February 22, 2021
So relatable and sweet!
This book made me feel seen! I only wish I had read it or something like it in middle school. It might have helped me feel less awkward or obsessed with "fitting in".
I highly recommend American as Paneer Pie to everyone, but especially other ABCDs (American-Born Confused Desi)!
4.5 Stars
This book made me feel seen! I only wish I had read it or something like it in middle school. It might have helped me feel less awkward or obsessed with "fitting in".
I highly recommend American as Paneer Pie to everyone, but especially other ABCDs (American-Born Confused Desi)!
4.5 Stars
October 5, 2024
This was really good and surprisingly eye opening. Like after reading this I actually sat down for a few seconds and reflected like desis living in west and desis living back home usually don’t treat each other well and it’s like messed up. There’s so much that’s common in our community that’s incredibly cruel and honestly hypocritical considering that most of our parents are immigrants.
June 11, 2020
Due to this book, I have been cooking a lot more Indian food lately! The main character is the child of immigrants, and she shows what it is like to be Indian-American preteen who dances with bollywood at home, but hides her bindi birthmark at school. Adorable, I enjoyed every page.
November 4, 2020
This is such a great book. It’s the book I needed as a kid. It’s the book I imagine so many kids need now. Beautifully written. Lekha is a protagonist you root for with your whole heart. I will be sharing this book with all the kids in my life.
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