To Her Own Beat by Brinda Shah. 312 p. Chronicle Books, April 13, 2027. 9781797241463. Review of arc courtesy of publisher at the Tri-State Book Buzz.
Thirteen-year-old Sumati Soni tries to live up to the meaning of her name - good thoughts. She swallows criticism and unkind observations about her weight. She's an accomplished Bharatanatyam dancer even though her guru proclaimed her a bit big for the art form. She's a budding poet who is trying to find her voice in a world that tries to shame her healthy, but large body. Even her own mother and her best friend, Cali have cutting words. She finds solace with her father, older sister and aunt, who love her unconditionally.
Readers will ache for Sumati as they follow her through the months leading up to her sister's wedding. They will root for her as she learns to take up her space and not apologize for it. Lessons about Indian culture are seamlessly woven as Sumati shares her love for it.
The poems are mostly free-verse, but as Sumati finds her voice as a poet and pours her feelings into her poems, she experiments with a variety of forms.
There is an author's note at the beginning with trigger warnings, but also reveals the fact that the novel is based on her lived experiences. An additional author's note at the end shares resources. There is also a discussion guide. While most of the cultural references are defined within the text, some were not. A glossary might be helpful.
The cover is quite appealing, though a note on the arc states that the art is not final.
Hand To Her Own Beat to fans of Starfish by Lisa Fipps of Garvey's Choice by Nikki Grimes. Barely Floating by William Rivera is a graphic novel that features a main character considered too fat for her chosen sport of synchronized swimming.
This book releases in April, 2027 and is a highly recommended addition to any school, classroom or public library.
*.jpg of cover on publisher page too pixilated to use.
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