Just Read

SUMMARY:
Amber, Jazz, and Geena are three sisters who are doing “just fine, thank you,” after their mom has died. They are considered by all around them to be perfect girls, students, and friends. Then their father decides they need a little female supervision and “Auntie” arrives from India.

Auntie puts a huge cramp in their style and puts an end to their “perfect” existence. The girls spend their days and nights scheming of ways to send Auntie packing, back to India. Each scheme is derailed by a very insightful Auntie.

Of course, things come to a head and the girls must confront their grief over the loss of their mother and her final wishes, and must find a way to fit Auntie into their lives.

WHO WOULD LOVE THIS BOOK? A kid who...

enjoys books about family drama
deals with grief and family issues – extended family, death of family members
likes stories told in first person narrative
want (or need) an education regarding the East Indian culture and faith
like stories set in England
likes “girl power” stories
is into stories featuring teenage angst/issues

WHAT ELSE?
This novel was written by the same author as Bend It Like Beckham, which has been turned into a movie of the same title. There is also a sequel to this story, entitled Bollywood Babes. They are all great reads for teaching kids to understand some of the cultural issues faced by non-whites, and their humour makes learning that lesson very enjoyable.

Since the mother has died in the book, be aware that a child who has lost a family member might find it a little hard to read. There is also an allusion to some physical abuse possibly suffered by a friend, but is not clearly explained nor graphically depicted.

RELATED LINK:
Author’s Website
Supplemental Non-Fiction Resource: India