Salma Writes a Book

September 1, 2023
As she prepares to be an older sister, a young girl encourages her mother to make amends with her own sibling. When Salma finds out her mother is pregnant, she's determined to become the best big sister ever! She can't find any books about being a good older sibling that speak to her family's experiences--they are Syrian immigrants who have settled in Canada--and she decides to write her own guidebook. While researching, she feels extra lucky that her uncle, Khalou Dawood, is back in touch with her family for the first time in years. Although Salma doesn't know why she's never met him, she's sure that she can learn how to be a great sibling from him and her mother--that is, until she discovers that her mother hasn't spoken to her brother for years, simply because he married a man. While helping her mother overcome homophobia, Salma realizes that being a sibling is a lot more complicated than she expected. She also learns that people can change--and that even adults sometimes need help figuring out how to be the best sibling ever. This tender, gentle book conveys the complexities of sibling relationships while also matter-of-factly describing a loving same-sex relationship. Purposeful though never didactic, this tale weaves multiple strands together for a satisfying ending. An affirming tale of family and acceptance. (Chapter book. 6-9)

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Starred review from November 1, 2023
Grades 1-4 *Starred Review* Fans of the Salma series will be delighted with this second installment, in which sharp, creative Salma learns she is going to have a new sibling and is beyond excited. After watching her parents reading a pregnancy guidebook, she decides she will write a book herself about being a sibling. She looks to her mother and her recently returned prodigal uncle as role models but encounters some confusing emotional complexities. The reason Salma had not met her uncle until now is that he is gay and her mother does not approve. This is hardly the stuff of loving siblinghood that Salma can appreciate. Meanwhile, Salma and her khalou (uncle) have become fast friends. This charming illustrated chapter book does an excellent job of conveying the clash between long-held traditions and change. The tension caused by Mama's rejection of Khalou's husband sends Salma into a tailspin. Everything comes to a head with a passionate outburst that lets Mama know that she is alone in her obstinacy and that her behavior is affecting Salma. Happily, there is a quick, satisfying resolution and peace is restored to this loving family. The illustrations add texture, cultural details provide depth, and a universal message of acceptance rounds everything out beautifully.

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