This is an important, well-executed YA novel that tackles sexual assault within a Muslim community with honesty and care. It's not an easy read, but it's an empowering one—Janna's journey from silence to speaking up is handled with emotional authenticity and without sensationalism.
What makes this work is that it's not just a trauma story. It's also funny, romantic, and deeply human. Janna is a fully realized character who loves Flannery O'Connor, crushes on a boy named Jeremy, navigates divorced parents, and wears her hijab with pride. The assault is central to the plot, but it doesn't define the entire book.
Parents should know upfront: this deals with sexual assault and the painful reality of not being believed. It's age-appropriate for mature teens (14+), but it's not light reading. If your teen is ready for it, though, this is exactly the kind of book that can spark important conversations about consent, trust, and finding your voice when the world wants you silent.
The Muslim representation is authentic and nuanced—this isn't a book about explaining Islam to white readers. It's just a teen story that happens to center a Muslim girl, which is refreshing and needed. Highly recommend for high schoolers, especially those looking for diverse voices and stories that don't shy away from hard truths.