Islamophobia leads to victim-blaming in a mystery set in a Chicago high school.
Recommended grade level: 6 and up
Pages: 272 (for ISBN 9781616201951)
Genre(s) and keywords: mystery, diverse
Tone/Style: gritty
Pace: moderate
Topics: fires, art, fundraisers, crimes, Islam, islamophobia
Themes: trust, prejudice, greed
Summary: A fire destroys…A community unites…A treasure appears…A crime unfolds…
When Saba Khan’s family home burns in a mysterious fire (possibly a hate crime), her Chicago high school rallies around her. But then a piece of quirky art donated to a school fund-raising effort for the Khans is revealed to be worth a fortune, and Saba’s life turns upside down again. Continue reading
A dystopian society, Indian culture, and feminist commentary combine to make this a unique read.
This is a rare action story that sheds light on serious issues in current events like racism, Islamophobia, and terrorism.
This book feels a lot like historical fiction–but it’s not. A novel concept make this one memorable.
Flashlight Chronicles 