by Rebecca R (Western USA): This book has a teenage male protagonist but readers of all ages and genders will be able to relate to the difficulties he faces. Darius’s Persian ancestry makes him a target of ignorant bullying at home in the USA, but a family trip to spend time with aging grandparents before it’s too late to do so, is not entirely a warm and fuzzy reunion with one’s maternal-side genetic roots. I found myself laughing out loud (a cliche but when it is true, there is no other way to describe one’s reactions). At times, I think I even had a true guffaw. Other times, readers will likely have tears in their eyes. This really is a special book. I would be surprised if the movie rights have not already been purchased. Add it to your must-read list! In the summer of 2018 I read an ARC of this book and loved it from the start.

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