It Ain't So Awful, Falafel

By Firoozeh Dumas

New kid Cindy faces cultural challenges in 1970s California amid rising anti-Iran sentiments.

4.3/5 Goodreads · 4,595 ratings

384 pages

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Bookroo's summary

In 1970s California, Zomorod, now Cindy, is determined to fit in despite being the new kid again. As Iran's revolution dominates headlines, anti-Iran sentiments threaten her fresh start. Can Cindy navigate the cultural tensions and find her place in a world that feels increasingly hostile? This poignant tale explores identity, belonging, and resilience in a time of political upheaval.

From the publisher

Zomorod (Cindy) Yousefzadeh is the new kid on the block . . . for the fourth time. California’s Newport Beach is her family’s latest perch, and she’s determined to shuck her brainy loner persona and start afresh with a new Brady Bunch name–Cindy. It’s the late 1970s, and fitting in becomes more difficult as Iran makes U.S. headlines with protests, revolution, and finally the taking of American hostages. Even puka shell necklaces, pool parties, and flying fish can’t distract Cindy from the anti-Iran sentiments that creep way too close to home. A poignant yet lighthearted middle grade debut from the author of the best-selling Funny in Farsi. California Library Association’s John and Patricia Beatty Award Winner Florida Sunshine State Young Readers Award (Grades 6-8) New York Historical Society’s New Americans Book Prize Winner Middle East Book Award for Youth Literature, Honorable Mention Booklist 50 Best Middle Grade Novels of the 21stCentury

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