Anisa's International Day by Reem Faruqi
Published by HarperCollins on September 20, 2022
ISBN: 0063206234
Pages: 112
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Anisa introduces herself to the reader before the story even begins. We discover an outspoken third-grade girl, serious about baking and creativity, and in touch with her Pakistani culture. Her classroom has a multitude of nationalities represented within it, inspiring her teacher to spontaneously declare an upcoming “International Day” to celebrate different countries around the world.

Anisa’s idea to share her Pakistani culture with her classmates through baking is derailed. Her alternate plan is a good one but she loses confidence when she thinks her best friend is derisive about it. All’s well that ends well, and Anisa learns a lot about the courage of her convictions and giving friends the benefit of the doubt.

First-person narration swoops the reader up into Anisa’s world and the illustrations nicely complement the story. This novel has just the right level of drama for children ages 8-12. A recommendation for any reader of this age looking for chapter books about friendship. The back matter contains a glossary of cultural words that may be new to many readers, as well as recipes, and International Day activities mentioned in the story. This would make a great read-aloud for a class learning about character studies or celebrating its own International Day.

Reviewed by Deanna Contrino, Young School Library, Saco