I Am Thunder

Khan’s debut, inspired by the well-publicized radicalization of three British schoolgirls who flew to Syria to join the “self-proclaimed ‘Islamic State’ ” in 2015, traces the coming-of-age of British-born Pakistani Muzna Saleem, 15. Muzna’s strict parents, cultural Muslims who immigrated from Pakistan, severely limit her personal choices: her mother’s dictate against waxing a growth of facial hair leads to bullying at school, and Muzna’s desire to study English challenges her father’s expectation of a medical career. When he loses his job under unfair circumstances and the family is forced to move, Muzna transfers to a different school, where she meets a handsome, charming new classmate: Pakistani born-again Muslim Arif Malik. Along with his charismatic older brother Jameel, he slowly influences her toward his radical interpretation of Islam, including taking her to hear fundamentalist preachers. Though understandable, Muzna’s naivety and willingness to go along with his ill-planned decisions are occasionally frustrating. Nonetheless, a gripping story line, supported by a nuanced exploration of Muzna’s family dynamics and immigrant experience, draws a clear distinction drawn between culture and religion (frequently conflated) and focuses on personal meanings of devotion, providing valuable touches. Ages 12–up. (Sept.)