How to Find What You're Not Looking For

Set in 1967 Connecticut, this middle-grade novel follows twelve-year-old Ariel Goldberg as her Jewish family grapples with major changes. When Ariel's older sister elopes with a young Indian man, the marriage creates tension within the family and forces them to confront their own beliefs about tradition and acceptance. Through Ariel's perspective, the story captures a pivotal moment in American history marked by changing social attitudes and the aftermath of the Supreme Court's Loving v. Virginia decision. Ariel must also navigate her struggles with school, where her dysgraphia makes writing difficult, while helping at her family's bakery business. The narrative explores themes of identity, belonging, and the courage to challenge established norms during a time of social transformation. Through one family's experience, the book examines how personal choices intersect with broader cultural shifts and generational differences in American society.

Readers appreciate the book's authentic portrayal of a Jewish-Indian family in 1960s Connecticut and its handling of interfaith relationships. Many note the main character Ariel's dysgraphia is portrayed with care and accuracy. Parents and teachers highlight the book's value for discussing civil rights, discrimination, and family expectations with middle-grade readers. Readers liked: - Complex family dynamics - Historical context around Loving v. Virginia - Poetry writing elements woven into story - Sister relationship portrayal Common criticisms: - Pacing feels slow in middle sections - Some readers found the verse-style writing challenging - A few felt the ending wrapped up too neatly Ratings: Goodreads: 4.27/5 (1,100+ ratings) Amazon: 4.7/5 (190+ ratings) Common Sense Media: 4/5 One reader noted: "The protagonist's struggle with dysgraphia hit close to home - it's rare to see learning differences depicted this thoughtfully in middle-grade fiction."

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🔖 Set in 1967, the book explores the impact of the Supreme Court case Loving v. Virginia, which struck down laws banning interracial marriage in the United States. 📚 Author Veera Hiranandani drew from her own family history as the daughter of a Jewish mother and Hindu Indian father to craft this story about interfaith and intercultural relationships. ✍️ The novel is written in second-person present tense, an unusual narrative style that helps readers connect directly with protagonist Ariel Goldberg's experiences. 🏆 The book received the Sydney Taylor Book Award and was named a 2022 Newbery Honor Book for its outstanding contribution to children's literature. 🍞 The story weaves in rich details about Jewish culture and family-owned bakeries in 1960s America, including authentic recipes and baking traditions.