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February 2023 Book of the Month

Category: Library, Monthly Book Reviews, News

Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating – Adiba Jaigirdar

Valentine’s Day approaches so I thought it fitting to choose a book that celebrates romance and love for February’s Book of the Month.  Hani and Ishu’s Guide to Fake Dating is an enjoyable and fun romance.  It captures perfectly both the #fakedating and #grumpysunshine tropes, so if you are in the mood for some romantic comedy hijinks, then this is the book for you.

Hani and Ishu go to the same school.  Despite their different experiences and backgrounds, they are put together because they are the only South Asian girls there.  They don’t really like each other.  Hani is a people pleaser and popular, Ishu is an overachiever who struggles to make friends.  When Hani comes out as bisexual to her friends, they are disdainful, mocking that she’s never kissed a girl, so how would she know.  In an attempt to validate her feelings to her friends she claims to be going out with Ishu.  When Hani approaches Ishu with the fake dating scenario, Ishu sees this as an opportunity to increase her own popularity which will help in her bid to be voted head girl. 

This story has all the goodness of a romcom but also takes a poignant look at family, friends and society.  It’s cleverly written, striking a balance between dealing with tough issues whilst remaining light-hearted and true to the romantic storyline.  The characters are relatable and endearing.  Their dialogue feels entirely believable. 

If you’ve ever felt the odd one out or have struggled to fit in with the crowd, you’ll enjoy following Hani and Ishu’s ups and downs, as they try to figure out their places in the world and their unexpected feelings for each other.

Available to borrow in the YA (Senior Fiction) section.  Also by the same author: The Henna Wars

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