lizdrum 's review for:

It Ain't So Awful, Falafel by Firoozeh Dumas

4.0

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I absolutely loved this book - this should be required reading in middle school, especially with the political climate we are in right now. Even though this book took place in the 70's, the prejudice and racial issues that the books talks about are just as relevant as they were then. Every child should understand the consequences of negative stereotypes, hate crimes and targeting people just because they are different from you. Plus, all of this meant so much more coming from the perspective of a 12 year old. I enjoyed the mixture of every-day middle schooler woes, like boys, fashion and food, mixed with the serious cultural issues surrounding our main character, Zomorod. I felt every emotion possible, most predominately sadness and frustration for the way her teachers, neighbors and classmates treat her for being from Iran, without even knowing her or understanding her culture. It also shows too, that there are good people in the world who do try to do the right thing. This book gave me a lot to think about and I loved Zomorod's clever comments, compassion for her family and the level of responsibility she has for someone so young. I really enjoyed this book and I will never forget it!