The Whole Story of a Half Girl

The Whole Story of a Half Girl written by Veera Hiranandani grabbed my attention, again due to the cover.  It was definitely something I wanted to read and I’m so glad I did!

Sonia Nadhamuni’s father loses his job and she is forced to go to public school for 6th grade.  Never has her heritage been an issue, until she gets to school and kids can’t pronounce her last name, make fun of her family background, and act like the middle school kids the reader knows in school.  Sonia’s father is Indian and her mother is Jewish American making it somewhat difficult and confusing for Sonia to know who she is.  Her father’s depression worsens to the point in which he disappears from the family and Sonia must learn how to combine both her halves to make a whole – something many middle schoolers struggle with regardless of their background.

I really liked learning about growing up – so different from the people around you.  This was a pretty foreign concept to me, I grew up in a small town where the majority of kids I went to school with were white and Protestant.  We were somewhat considered the outsiders, because I was raised Catholic.  But, when I went to graduate school and when I moved to my first job, I strived to find places that were very diverse.  I LOVE learning about other people’s cultures and traditions and I’m so lucky to live in a place where I learn new things all the time!

This is a great realistic fiction novel for middle grade students – girls especially as it deals with drama, cheerleading, and has a female protagonist.  Especially for girls who feel like they’re not quite sure how they fit in or even who they are.  Check out the author’s website for more information!

Title: The Whole Story of a Half Girl
Author: Veera Hiranandani
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: 2012
Page Number: 224 pgs.