Blurb: Azra is sixteen, smart and knows how to get what she wants. She thinks. When she wins a place in a national science competition, she thinks her biggest problem is getting her parents’ permission to go. But she doesn’t know they’re busy arranging her marriage to an older cousin she’s never met. In Pakistan. In just three months’ time.
Azra always thought she’d finish high school with her friends and then go on to study science, but now her dreams of university are suddenly overshadowed. Can she find a way to do what she wants, while keeping her parents happy?
Or does being a good daughter mean sacrificing her freedom?
Azra is a 16-year-old science geek. She knows the periodic table and can make jokes about it. She hates having to pick up her sister, Soraya, after school ends every day and she will never understand her big brother, Rashid, who is the very definition of a layabout. She has parents who love her, and want what’s best for her and in her case, that includes supporting an arranged marriage to a man 11 years her senior in Pakistan.
Read the rest of my review on Reading Time
I’ve seen this book around from time to time but really had no idea what is was about and I’m.surprised actually. There’s hardly any mention of arranged marriages within YA and it’s a big part of so many cultures around the world. What a decision to make though. It sounds like the ending was an easy way out, the blame being shifted too. I’m glad you were still able to enjoy it Verushka, wonderful review darling girl <3
Hey you! TY 🙂 This is a strong book, and the writing is so good for so much of it, I forgave the ending. I think the story needs telling because as you pointed out, it’s such a part of different cultures and it’s something that needs to be in YA. I liked that the author dealt with how conflicted Azra is about her decision but she does it anyway.
I came here originally JUST BECAUSE OF THAT COVER – how interesting! And now I see not only does it have an amazing cover, it also has a really great premise and it sounds like you really enjoyed it. I’m sorry that the climax wasn’t all it could have been and that there were a couple of pacing issues, but overall I think this book sounds exactly like something I would love to read. Great review!
Isn’t it lovely? That’s the reason I noticed it first and then to my delight got it for review for February. There were issues with the book, but there’s so much goodness here. and it’s such a strong plot, the other bits didn’t detract from it.
Sounds like a read one could learn a lot of things from.
I like how you mentioned that Azra’s frustration is builted slowly, but too bad that the conclusion isn’t stronger towards the end.
Wonderful review. Even with the disappointing ending, it still sounds like such an important book.