More to the Story

Starred review from July 1, 2019
This contemporary update of Louisa May Alcott’s Little Women follows the Muslim, Pakistani-American Mizra family of Atlanta. Narrator Jameela, 13, is thrilled to be named features editor of her school newspaper and endeavors to write a spectacular article as a going-away gift for her father, whose job is sending him overseas for six months. Jam and her sisters—Maryam, Bisma, and Aleeza—are heartbroken to lose Baba for half a year, but the sting is lessened somewhat by the arrival of Ali, 14, the British-Pakistani nephew of Baba’s best friend. Ali is spending the year in the U.S. after getting into trouble following his father’s death, and he quickly endears himself to the Mizra girls. Jam decides to write her article about microaggressions and unwisely uses examples Ali told her in confidence, endangering their new friendship just as a crisis threatens her family. Khan (Amina’s Voice) nimbly incorporates details of modern life and allusions to Alcott’s classic—including financial troubles and a health scare—into a tale that is, fittingly, strongest in the moments when family dynamics are on display. Ages 8–12. Agent: Matthew Elblonk, DeFiore & Co.

Priya Ayyar's straightforward narration provides a positive and loving portrayal of a contemporary Pakistani-American family in this story inspired by LITTLE WOMEN. Seventh grader Jameela, editor of her school newspaper, develops a friendship with Ali, the visiting British-Pakistani nephew of a family friend. At the same time, her younger sister is diagnosed with cancer, and her close-knit family pulls together to support her. Ayyar is engaging and relatable as Jameela. Although her British accent for Ali is not totally convincing, she gives Jameela's three sisters distinct voices reflecting their personalities: mature Maryam; timid, compliant Bisma; and spoiled Aleeza. Listeners who know LITTLE WOMEN will recognize their counterparts, but it's not necessary to enjoy this audiobook. S.C. � AudioFile 2019, Portland, Maine