I'm from Here Too

A parent might reach for this book when their child is navigating the pain of being targeted for being different, particularly regarding their religious or cultural identity. It is an essential resource for children who feel like outsiders in their own communities or for those who have witnessed peer-to-step-up against prejudice. Through the eyes of thirteen-year-old Anoop, the story explores the heavy weight of verbal bullying and the internal struggle to maintain one's values in the face of hostility. Written in accessible free-verse, the book provides a mirrors and windows experience for middle-grade readers. While the protagonist is South Asian and Sikh, the themes of standing tall and reclaiming your space are universal. Parents will appreciate how the story models non-violent resistance and the power of drawing strength from family traditions. It is a hopeful, empowering guide for building resilience and a firm sense of self-worth.