It Ain't So Awful, Falafel

Name: It Ain't So Awful, Falafel
ISBN: 9780544612310

by Firoozeh Dumas

Zomorod, an Iranian immigrant, shares her funny and poignant story of adapting to life in Southern California during the Iran Hostage Crisis. She grapples with cultural differences, prejudice, and fin

About This Book

This heartwarming and humorous chapter book follows Zomorod, an 11-year-old Iranian girl, as her family moves to Southern California in the late 1970s. Against the backdrop of the Iranian Revolution and the Iran Hostage Crisis, Zomorod, who renames herself Cindy, navigates the complexities of cultural assimilation, friendship, and prejudice. The book offers a personal and often funny perspective on a challenging historical period, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and resilience through the eyes of a witty and observant protagonist. It's an excellent choice for middle-grade readers interested in historical fiction, cultural experiences, and stories about overcoming adversity with humor.

"Eleven-year-old Zomorod, originally from Iran, tells her story of growing up Iranian in Southern California during the Iranian Revolution and hostage crisis of the late 1970s"--

Concepts

Loneliness & Belonging Self-Confidence & Identity Resilience & Perseverance Love & Family Friendship & Loyalty Justice & Fairness Empathy & Kindness Curiosity & Wonder Anger & Frustration Joy & Gratitude Being Different Making Friends Cultural Identity Immigration Peer Pressure Growing Up Family & Siblings Friendship & Social School Life

Heads up, parents

discrimination

peril_danger

Discussion Prompts

How does Zomorod's decision to change her name to Cindy reflect her feelings about fitting in? Have you ever felt pressure to change something about yourself to be accepted?

The book takes place during the Iran Hostage Crisis. How did this historical event impact Zomorod and her family's daily lives and their interactions with others?

What are some examples of prejudice or misunderstanding Zomorod faces? How does she, or her family, respond to these challenges?

How does Zomorod use humor to cope with difficult situations? Can humor be a powerful tool in real life?

What does this book teach us about cultural identity and the experience of immigration? How can we be more welcoming to people from different backgrounds?

External Reviews

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