One Half From the East

Obayda’s family is in need of some good fortune, and her aunt has an idea to bring the family luck—dress Obayda, the youngest of four sisters, as a boy, a bacha posh. 

 Life in this in-between place is confusing, but once Obayda meets another bacha posh, everything changes. Their transformation won’t last forever, though—unless the two best friends can figure out a way to make it stick and make their newfound freedoms endure. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

One Half from the East is about a girl named Obayda who acts like a boy to make her father proud. I love how Obayda takes a stand in wanting to be a boy. Rahim, another transferred girl helps Obayda take new risks which bonds them a new friendship.

I find it very emotional to feel what Obayda had in her life with the sacrifices and changes that happened. I cheered out loud for what Obayda tried to do when something threatened her friendship with Rahim. Obayda does strong and powerful actions to save Rahim from going away from her forever.

I really could believe those legendary adventures that drove Obayda and Rahim together. I would rate this book five stars and I think people who are into heavier and more emotional stories should read One Half from the East. Thank you, Nadia Hashimi, for writing this beautiful story.

Lizzie Reaches the Rainbow

Lizzie's home isn't a happy one. But when Lizzie makes a wish on a rainbow and Fairy Imogen turns up, her life is changed forever. A delightful story about the magical power of imagination. (Synopsis courtesy of Amazon.)

The book, Lizzie Reaches the Rainbow teaches me about how I can be a better person. Imogen, Lizzy's rainbow fairy teaches Lizzie about the different elements of kindness like Peace for Purple and Generosity for Green so she can face the arguing of her parents. After reading this book, I feel that I can learn and continue to be a good person with or without the rainbow. The descriptions kept me wanting to read it even though it was a children's book.

When I read this book to my little sister, she said she would rate it five stars. I also think this is really the best book for children to read so I would also rate it five stars.

Thank you Lara and Tom Woods for creating a book for my sister and I to enjoy!