Meet Yasmin!

August 13, 2018
In this first installment of an early chapter book series, Pakistani-American Yasmin is an audacious second-grader whose abundant curiosity leads her to new discoveries, trials, and mishaps. In the first of four episodes, Yasmin is inspired to become an explorer after observing maps in her father’s book. She decides to make a map of the neighborhood, which she consults when she is parted from her mother during a trip to the farmer’s market. In subsequent stories, Yasmin becomes frustrated during school projects but ultimately finds unique ways to contribute. And in the final tale, “Yasmin the Fashionista,” she accidentally tears her mother’s colorful kameez while trying it on, but once again employs problem-solving skills. Faruqi writes in clear, vivid text and in digestible chapters, incorporating references to Pakistani culture and customs. In brightly colored artwork by Aly (The Inquisitor’s Tale), Yasmin’s wide-eyed expressions and flamboyant style (striped tights, a polka-dotted painter’s smock, red cowgirl boots) lend her great appeal. Ages 5–8.

Starred review from July 1, 2018

Gr 1-3-Yasmin Ahmad is exploring the world around her with eagerness and curiosity. Yasmin learns about ancient explorers and mapmaking from her Baba, prompting her to explore the local farmer's market and plan out her journey. She also transforms into a fashionista when she's with her Nani, trying on her Mama's embroidered kameez and satin hijab. As she delves into new experiences, Yasmin also faces some common childhood fears and develops creative solutions on her own. Faruqi introduces readers to a delightful new beginning reader series that features an imaginative second grader who will quickly become a favorite among emergent readers. Aly's animated illustrations are the perfect complement to the text and bring Yasmin and her beloved family to life. The author includes back matter, such as vocabulary in Urdu as well as facts about Pakistan. VERDICT A definite purchase for any beginning reader collection.-Claire Moore, Manhattan Beach Library, CA

Copyright 2018 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

Starred review from June 15, 2018
In Faruqi's debut for children, transitioning readers watch a fun, curious, and creative Pakistani-American girl solve problems and have adventures.Four separate sections give Yasmin lots of opportunities. "Yasmin the Explorer" makes a map of her neighborhood and uses it when she goes to the farmers market with her mother. "Yasmin the Painter" doesn't know what to create for the art contest at school, but when she tinkers with a paint set gifted to her by her baba, she gets an idea that proves successful. "Yasmin the Builder" is once again stumped over a class project, but after a few false starts and moments of frustration, she comes up with a brilliant contribution. Finally, "Yasmin the Fashionista" is bored at home with her grandparents while her parents eat out together. She complains of having nothing to do, but when she stumbles into her mother's closet, the hijabs and saris and a new kameez give her lots of ideas. Each episode spans two to three chapters. Each spread has full- or half-page art in attractive, bold colors. Readers will be charmed by this one-of-a-kind character and won't tire of her small but significant dilemmas. Faruqi nails the child's perspective, and illustrator Aly gives Yasmin life. Backmatter intended for child readers offers things to think and talk about from the stories, an index of Urdu words presented as a fun way to learn the language, facts about Pakistan, a recipe, and a craft.Utterly satisfying. (Fiction. 5-9)

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