Zarina Divided

As the only girl in her wealthy family, 11-year-old Zarina feels as if she leads a charmed life in 1947 Poona, India—until Zarina and her Muslim family flee from India to the newly formed Muslim country of Pakistan. Zarina witnesses incidents of violence and turbulence between Muslims, Sikhs, and Hindus as she travels from Poona to Karachi, and the trip proves traumatic and dangerous, especially for her pregnant mother. Disenchanted with her new home, Zarina becomes inspired when her brothers leave for boarding school. Despite her mother’s protests, Zarina pressures her parents to send her to boarding school as well. While attending a religious academy run by a British administration, Zarina blossoms. Faruqi (The House Without Lights) draws on her grandmother’s experiences during the partition of India, as addressed in an author’s note, to sensitively conjure a touching tale of loss and change. Depictions of frightening violence and genuine acts of kindness are balanced via deliberate verse that eschews judgment and compassionately showcases how societal perceptions of religious differences can impact relationships. It’s a simultaneously gentle and gripping story led by a strong-willed protagonist eager to advocate for herself in a changing world. Ages 8–12. Agent: Sara Crowe, Sara Crowe Literary. (May)