Despite this book being labeled as YA, it didn't necessarily feel like it. It contains mature content and sophisticated themes and, overall, is very well written so I think this would be enjoyed by adult readers in addition to its younger intended audience.
The narrative of the story is from a young eleven year old girl's perspective who matures over a period of one to two years. I wouldn't say this is a feel good read but there are many feel good moments in it and there is a lot of love between family and friends. The setting and interactions in the story are extremely vivid and the story flows naturally. The author provides excellent foreshadowing and metaphor, as well.
Being from a Western culture that either completely ignores or completely demonizes the country, religion, and people that this story is about I appreciated that nearly every character was depicted in a three-dimensional and humanizing way. Things are not clear cut and we see most of the characters struggle between their personal desires, their obligation to tradition, and the very real practicality of doing what's needed to survive within their circumstances. There's a lot of nuance here that I rarely see in fiction and very much appreciated.
Shabanu is an extremely strong and vivid character and I loved seeing the story through her perspective. There is a notable difference in her maturity from the beginning of the book to the end and, regardless of what happens to her, her spirit remains strong.
Admittedly, the feminist in me hated the circumstances that Shabanu endures. However, this story paints a realistic depiction of what actually occurs in this Pakistani culture. The book is fiction but it's not inaccurate fiction.
The book is definitely an eye-opener, makes one think and appreciate cultural differences in both Shabanu's and my own.
Definitely recommend.
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Reviews with images
CHILD SURVIVAL STORY Shabanu beside a camel, on a dune, is a stark image.
Based on her experiences as a UPI news correspondent in Pakistan, author Suzanne Fisher Staples has written an exquisite novel. The main character is a Pakistani girl, who lives in the desert and raises camels. Readers are transported to her isolated home, where she battles sandstorms, breaks up camel fights, and resists becoming a child bride to a middle-aged landowner. Shabanu is a timeless heroine.My Brother, My Sister, and IWarriors Don't Cry: A Searing Memoir of the Battle to Integrate Little Rock's Central HighLittle House on the Prairie (Little House, No 3)
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Amazon Customer
Fantastic read! I read it in middle school and ...
Reviewed in Canada on July 18, 2017
