This novel is realistic fiction.

Maya’s grandfather has died, so the family is flying to Pakistan to help her grandmother settle their affairs. When Maya arrives, her grandmother tells about how they came to live in Pakistan and that they are truly Indian. She must return to India to retrieve the family treasures that were hidden there before they left. Maya, her sister, and their grandmother sneak away on their adventure. Quickly, Grandma becomes ill and Maya and Zara decide to continue on their own, believing they will be safe even though they’ve been repeatedly told that it’s not safe and there are precautions that should be taken. Maya ends up separated from Zara with no cell phone and with dangerous people.

As the novel progresses, you learn all about the history of India and why Indians live in Pakistan. Maya realizes that her family tree is much different than she thought and is willing to sacrifice and face danger to get the family heirlooms back.

The novel is really a history of India with a little bit of plot thrown in. If you are interested in learning about India--it’s and some of the current political problems, I highly recommend this novel. It’s not a boring novel by any means; it’s just mainly about India. ( )