Book Review:  Promising Azra - Helen Thurloe

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that Promising Azra is Helen Thurloe's debut novel; it is written with such sensitivity, and told so well. (And can I just mention how eye-catching the book cover is?! I love it!!)

The main character is 16-year-old Azra Ajmal. She is a Year 11 student of Muslim background, residing  with her family in Sydney. She loves to study and is very passionate about chemistry, and dreams of attending university after completing high school.
But her plans to further her education are thwarted when she learns that her family is arranging for Azra to be wed to a much older cousin in Pakistan.
When Azra discovers this, she is understandably terrified and tries to find a way to fulfill both her dreams, and that of her family's.
But will that be possible?

There were many times throughout the book that I felt so sorry for Azra, but I admired her determination and courage.
Many times, Azra gets treated unjustly by her family. 
It's totally different for her older brother Rashid though, who is still respected by his family after his many transgressions. Her younger sister Soraya is an adorable character, very innocent and a lovely addition to the story.
Azra is responsible for picking her up every day after school, and for most of the cleaning and cooking too.

To a certain extent, I felt for Azra's parents. They wanted a better life for their children, and with the help of Azra's Uncle Zarar, they were able to achieve that by coming to live in Australia. He arranged their visa's, job opportunities, and accommodation. However, Zarar is controlling, and has the final say about all family matters. I wish they would've stood up to him a bit more, but their hesitation was warranted.

Although it is a fictional book, there are many cases of arranged marriages still occurring in Australia presently.  
Helen Thurloe describes the Muslim culture well, and I enjoyed reading about their traditions in the story. I would've loved the ending to be a bit longer to answer a few more questions, but perhaps Helen can write a sequel?..

This book is targeted at young adults, but many adults will enjoy it too. I highly recommend it as this book bought the topic of arranged marriages to light, in a respectful and entertaining way. 


**There's still time to enter my Cheer Chick Charlie children's book giveaway! Head here to enter: http://inthegoodbooksblog.blogspot.com.au/2016/08/cheer-chick-charlie-childrens-book.html