A Girl Like That

Reviewed by: Elizabeth Andersen - Westbrook High School, Westbrook, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 8, 2018

Review

When Porus and Zarin are found dead as a result of a car accident many people wonder what Porus was doing with "a girl like that"? Porus is by definition a good boy who helps his family and has always stayed away from trouble. "That girl" is Zarin, an outspoken, rebellious orphan who defies expectation by flirting with and dating boys. In her debut novel set in Saudi Arabia, Tanaz Bhathena creates a love story which explores and pushes against the cultural expectations of girls and gives voice to their budding desires for love and independence. The story tackles the complicated and timely issue of sexual assault, as well as complex family dynamics. The chapters alternate between Porus, Zarin, and occasional classmates to piece their story together. The alternating narration does not provide distinct voices for each character, but the plot twists move the story forward. This book should be part of every Young Adult Library collection for its inclusion of teenage voices in modern Saudi Arabia. A glossary of words and phrases is listed in the back.

Overall Book Score: excellent