This story covers racism, discrimination, and finding love all in one. This is one of the newer books focused on representing bisexuals as well as Bengalis while realistically attempting to portray the hate and assumptions that come alongside coming out. It’s an entertaining piece revolving around the only two brown girls in the entire school as they find themselves in a predicament as their “fake” relationship begins to stir some “real” feelings.
The novel is a nice diverse read and covers many struggles that come with telling others about one’s self. It really does well with showing the main characters coming to terms with themselves. Especially Hani. NGL, it’s very easy to see that she’s the type who pays mind to what others think, but it’s great to see her learn to work on herself as she deals with the idea that she doesn’t have to please anyone but herself. Overall, it’s a great novel and kept me interested in the progression of their romance as well as the acceptance they received to their coming out.
Rating: 4
Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating by Adiba Jaigirdar