Sheba Karim Boeken

Three Pakistani-American teenagers, on a trip through the land of pork ribs, mechanical bulls, and Confederate flags. It's going to be quite an adventure. The summer after her freshman year of college, Mariam is looking forward to working and hanging out with her best friends: irrepressible and beautiful Ghazala and religious but closeted Umar. But when a scandalous photo of Ghaz appears on a billboard in Times Square, Mariam and Umar come up with a plan to rescue her from her furious parents. And what could be a better escape than a spontaneous road trip down to New Orleans? With the heartbreaking honesty of Julie Murphy's Dumplin' mixed with the cultural growing pains and smart snark of When Dimple Met Rishi, this wry, remarkable road-trip story is about questioning where you come from--and choosing the family that chooses you back.

A humorous and poignant coming-of-age journey unfolds in this young adult novel, appealing to fans of popular authors like Jenny Han and Megan McCafferty. With relatable characters and a compelling narrative, it captures the trials and tribulations of growing up, making it a standout choice for readers seeking both laughter and depth. Recognized as a Kirkus Best Book of 2017, it promises to resonate with those navigating the complexities of adolescence.

Gilmore Girls meets vibrant New Delhi in this thoughtful and hilarious new novel about a teen facing family expectations, relationship complications, and hidden secrets in a new country-sprinkled with Sheba Karim's signature wit and steamy romance, and perfect for readers who loved Mary H.