If you haven't read a book by the amazing Mitali Perkins, go out and buy one right now! Born Mitali Bose in Kolkata (Calcutta), India, and raised in five countries before settling in California, she is the talented and acclaimed author of six novels for youngsters and many short stories, reviews and articles. When her father loses his job and leaves India to look for work in America, Asha Gupta, her older sister, Reet, and their mother must wait with Baba’s brother and his family, as well as their grandmother, in Calcutta.
Uncle is welcoming, but in a country steeped in tradition, the three women must abide by his decisions. Asha’s only solace is her rooftop hideaway, where she pours her heart out in her diary, and where she begins a clandestine friendship with Jay Sen, the boy next door. Asha can hardly believe that she, and not Reet, is the object of Jay’s attention. Then news arrives about Baba . . . and Asha must make a choice that will change their lives forever.
Early praise for Secret Keeper:
"Achingly realistic." -Kirkus Reviews
"Heartbreaking and hopeful." -Publisher's Weekly
"Quietly powerful." — Booklist
I hope you will come to Mitali's Book Launch party in the SEATTLE AREA this Sunday, Jan. 18, 2009, 2 p.m., at the Bellevue Barnes and Noble, 626 106th Ave. NE, Bellevue, WA. Phone: 425-453-7958.
I'm planning to attend the book launch. I hope to see you there.
Mitali is also giving a Teen Writing Workshop with Chai, Naan, and Samosas, Sunday, January 18, 5:00 p.m., at the Bellevue Regional Library, 1111 110th Ave NE, Bellevue, WA 98004. Phone: 425-450-1765.
