Early Reader
2019

I was first drawn to this book because Yasmin looks so sassy on the front. As well, it seems to be popular at my library, where I see the series regularly getting checked out. I also like that it's a series, because it preps younger children for bigger series as they grow. It fits the early reader category because the book is broken down into chapters, the words are larger, there are a lot of sight words with a few more difficult terms to keep the reader engaged and learning.

Yasmin is at home with her grandparents while her parents are out on a date night. She is bored and has exhausted all other forms of entertainment - she's already made three crafts. Her grandparents suggest different activities, but she's not feeling it. When she steps into her parents room she sees all the pretty clothes her mother has and an idea comes to her - she'll put on a fashion show. She encourages her grandma to join in the show and together they take out kameez, shawls and hijabs to try on. There is a small accident that derails them - but soon they are back to the show. When her parents arrive home, the lights are out. When the door opens, it's time for Nani and Yasmin to put on their show for her parents!

This book fits the theme of family as Yasmin interacts with all members of her family throughout the book. Staying with her grandparents while her parents are out, involving Nani in a fashion show, problem-solving with Nani and Nana, and finally putting on a fashion show for her parents at the end.

The one thing I really liked about this book was at the back, there are thoughtful discussion questions similar to book club questions. There are just three, but it gets young readers thinking about what they read and engaging them more. There is also a glossary of terms, where the reader is invited to learn Urdu with Yasmin. This section describes how Yasmin's family speaks two languages and that Urdu is a Pakistani language. A list of fun facts about Pakistan can also be found in the back along with a suggestion for a craft. I really liked that because when planning for a program at the library you have guidance on where to start. ( )