DigeeBooks

Zomorod (Cindy) Yousefzadeh is the new kid on the block...for the fourth time. California's Newport Beach is her family's latest perch, and she's determined to shuck her brainy loner persona and start afresh with a new Brady Bunch name - Cindy. It's the late 1970s, and fitting in becomes more difficult as Iran makes US headlines with protests, revolution, and finally the taking of American hostages. Even mood rings and puka shell necklaces can't distract Cindy from the anti-Iran sentiments that creep way too close to home.

A poignant yet lighthearted middle grade debut from the author of the best-selling Funny in Farsi.

Journey Through the World of Iranian Heritage with "It Ain't So Awful, Falafel" by Firoozeh Dumas

In the vibrant pages of "It Ain't So Awful, Falafel", Firoozeh Dumas takes readers on an enchanting journey through the kaleidoscope of Iranian culture and heritage. This collection of insightful, witty, and heartwarming essays offers a unique perspective on growing up as an Iranian-American in the San Francisco Bay Area.

With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, Dumas paints a vivid picture of her childhood home, where the aroma of cardamom-spiced rice and the laughter of family members filled the air. She recounts hilarious anecdotes about her eccentric relatives, shares her experiences navigating the cultural nuances of two worlds, and invites readers to savor the rich tapestry of Iranian traditions.

From the bustling streets of Tehran to the sun-drenched beaches of Southern California, Dumas's essays traverse a wide range of topics, exploring themes of identity, family, faith, and assimilation. Through her heartfelt narratives, she sheds light on the challenges and joys of being an immigrant, bridging the gap between two cultures, and finding a sense of belonging in a rapidly changing world.

As Dumas recounts her family's immigration to the United States, she vividly portrays their struggles and triumphs, their hopes and dreams. She shares stories of her father, a dedicated engineer, who found success in a foreign land, and her mother, a resourceful homemaker, who skillfully blended Iranian traditions with American customs.

With her signature humor and disarming candor, Dumas invites readers to laugh alongside her as she navigates the complexities of cultural misunderstandings, language barriers, and the occasional culinary faux pas. Yet, amidst the laughter, there is a profound sense of love and appreciation for the resilience and adaptability of her family and community.

"It Ain't So Awful, Falafel" is a testament to the beauty of diversity and the power of embracing one's heritage. Through Dumas's evocative prose, readers gain a deeper understanding of Iranian culture, its customs, and its people. This book is a celebration of the immigrant experience, a poignant reflection on the complexities of identity, and a reminder that laughter and love can transcend cultural boundaries.