More Than Just a Pretty Face

Danyal loves making food that people enjoy. He is learning the delicacies of French dining in the hopes of becoming a chef. However, this is not smart enough for his parents, who still follow the ways of their ancestors, including arranged marriages. His parents have arranged several meetings, and the one with Bisma is just the latest. Though she is honest and friendly, Kaval, his best friend’s sister, is the one. When Danyal is chosen as the Renaissance Man for history class, a coveted spot usually earned by a top student which includes a research paper and presentation, he has a chance to redeem himself to his parents and earn Kaval as his bride. Unfortunately, he’s not one to take the easy way, but it may cost him the life he envisions.

Danyal is the sweetest, kindest kid—his wit and honest gut reactions are stuff that teenage girls’ dreams are made of. Hindi words are thrown in, lending an authenticity to Danyal’s experience. The complexities of Muslim dating customs combined with the history of the Muslim people provide a backdrop for a unique but vaguely familiar story. This story is wonderful, like a favorite teddy bear—snuggly and warm.