Toshi and her six-year-old brother Tarlok are separated during the violent riots following partition in India which divided the country as well as families, creating profound loss. Sixty years later, the discovery of a diary offers insight while a chance meeting provides healing and understanding. (Grades 6 and up)
Pakistan
A Thousand Questions
Mimi is spending the summer in Karachi and learns about the city and the culture through the eyes of Sakina, who works at Mimi’s grandparents’ house. Sakina wants to attend a school and needs to improve her English, and helps Mimi find her dad. A heartfelt and delightful book about two girls from different worlds, of friendships and families. (Grades 3-6)
Amal Unbound
Twelve-year old Amal aspires to be a teacher in Pakistan. After unintentionally insulting a member of her village’s ruling family, that dream is sunk. As punishment, Amal is forced to leave her distraught family behind and work as an indentured servant at the Khan estate. Discovering their corruptness, Amal summons her courage and intellect to secure justice and freedom. (Grades 5-8)