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

challenging emotional funny hopeful inspiring lighthearted reflective sad tense 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? Yes

5.0

 

I devoured this book at a rapid pace, finding it a refreshing departure from the intense murder mystery thriller I am currently reading. "Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating" by Adiba Jaigirdar is a truly delightful read, and I enjoyed it immensely. 

 

Jaigirdar adeptly captures the nuanced experience of children of immigrants, who often feel an intense pressure to prove their worth and validate their parents' sacrifices. This theme resonated deeply with me. If I had a nickel for every friend or acquaintance who slogged through college, miserable, pursuing a degree for a career they didn’t even desire just to satisfy their parents' expectations, I’d be incredibly wealthy. 

 

Moreover, the book's exploration of bisexuality is spot-on. Having identified as bisexual since I was 12—now being 21—I can attest to the strange societal perceptions around bisexuality. People often doubt your orientation until you “prove” it by dating someone of the same gender. I recall being congratulated on my first girlfriend with remarks like, "Wow, you weren’t kidding about the bisexual thing," as if it were a whim rather than a fundamental part of my identity. This personal struggle is poignantly depicted in the narrative, offering a validating and relatable experience for readers like myself. 

 

The dynamics between the sisters in the story were captivating. I’ve never been particularly close to my siblings, and I often assumed the worst of my older brother until I matured and realized it was never that serious. The older sister’s journey, especially her uncertainty about her future, struck a chord with me as well. 

 

The portrayal of toxic friendships was another element that hit close to home. The painful awareness that a longstanding friendship is toxic, yet feeling trapped by its history, is a sentiment many can relate to. This book also accurately highlights the lack of respect for cultural differences, exemplified by the constant mispronunciation of Hani’s name—an all-too-familiar experience for many ethnic kids. 

 

Lastly, the romance between Hani and Ishu is beautifully crafted. The slow build-up and the mutual realization of their feelings, coupled with their hesitation to act on them, was wonderfully executed. The pacing of their relationship development felt natural and satisfying. 

 

Overall, "Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating" is a well-written and engaging story that tackles significant themes with sensitivity and authenticity. Adiba Jaigirdar has created a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.