RAINBOW FAIR

A seventh grader’s Chinese and Muslim identities take center stage as she navigates friendship tensions and self-acceptance.

Sophie Hu grapples with the meaning of embracing her faith when her family members, who are Hui, follow only minimal Islamic practices: “Other than not eating pork, what does it mean that I’m Muslim?” She struggles when her bisexual best friend, Katie, forms new friendships in the school’s LGBTQ+ club. Their bond is further tested during the Rainbow Fair, a major middle school cultural event. Katie’s organizing an LGBTQ+ booth, and a teacher unexpectedly tasks Sophie with creating a Muslim one: “The only thing worse than being the school’s only Muslim is being the school’s inauthentic Muslim.” The arrival of Turkish American transfer student Anna Demir, a fellow Muslim, helps Sophie see that there isn’t just one way to embody one’s faith, sparking a journey of self-discovery. Ultimately, Sophie embraces her layered heritage, opens conversations about her family’s history (her parents were born in Taiwan), and helps others celebrate their authentic selves. Ma deftly examines the intersectionality of identity with nuance and authenticity. Sophie’s growth—recognizing that her family’s approach to Islam doesn’t invalidate their faith—adds depth to the narrative. Meanwhile, her evolving friendship with Katie reflects the natural growing pains of middle school relationships. Ma offers a rich, relatable, and inclusive story that’s perfect for young readers grappling with their own questions of belonging.

Accessible and engaging, this novel shines as an exceptional tale of self-acceptance and understanding.