A review by stories_of_the_soul27
Hani and Ishu's Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar

emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.75

I really really liked this book. I loved Hani & Ishu A LOT. But so much of the cuteness of their friendship was sucked out because of how awful the other characters were. So no it is not a lighthearted book. It was quite heavy with themes that are so important for us to know and I am so glad that Adiba had written this book. This book also shows why YA shouldn’t be discarded as just books for young adults. YA books act as a mirror to the society. 

So read this book to know who Bengalis are and how they are so many variations of them that you just cannot bottle us into one stereotype. Read it to know how you can be empathetic towards your Muslim friends. Read it to know bisexuality is a very real thing. Read it to know the struggle of immigrants in a different (white) country and how much that affects the first generation children in a multitude of ways. Read it to know that friendship doesn’t mean that you would trample over your friends and bend them according to your will. 

Read it also to join in the journey of two adorable girls who are at an important juncture of their life of exploring their likes & dislikes and their relationship with people around them. 

Being an Indian Bengali myself, the talks of biriyani, food, inclusion of bengali dialogues in the story warmed my heart beyond anything. This book was a love letter to Bengali culture. 

Another part I loved most was that Hani is a Muslim girl and while Ishu’s religion was not revealed from her name and surname I am sure she is Hindu. India, Bangladesh and Pakistan’s history is tainted by Hindu vs Muslim animosity in the past and even now (sadly). Most at fault for this are the British Colonisers. So a Hindu-Muslim relationship is a cause of much discomfort and trouble in this society. But watching Hani & Ishu’s love and friendship blossom without that taint was a calming balm to my heart.