Simi's story succeeds by blending traditional Indian matchmaking with the digital chaos of a high school dating app. Readers connect with her witty voice and the vibrant, sensory details of her family celebrations. Books in this family share a focus on modern teens navigating cultural heritage while disrupting social hierarchies through technology and humor.
A parent would reach for this book when their teenager is struggling to balance the weight of family expectations with their own unique interests, or when navigating the complex social hierarchies of high school. The story follows Simi, a talented artist from a family of traditional Indian matchmakers, who creates a matchmaking app that accidentally upends her school's social order. It is a lighthearted yet meaningful exploration of cultural identity, the ethics of technology, and the courage required to be oneself. Parents will appreciate the respectful depiction of a multigenerational Indian-American family and the way the story addresses peer pressure and digital citizenship without being preachy. It is a perfect fit for readers aged 12 to 15 who enjoy stories about friendship, creativity, and finding one's voice.
