Vidya is 15 years old during WWII, and she worries that her family will arrange a marriage for her before she can finish school or go to college like she dreams. All around her, the world is in turmoil as British-occupied India fights on all sides, not only against Germany and Japan, but against the racism and political unrest in their own country. Vidya learns that not all British are racist, but also that the Indian people can be racist against their own people in the caste system.

When Vidya's family must move into her grandfather's house, Vidya loses the happy and free family life she used to enjoy. Now she is hampered by the traditions and rules of her strict Brahmin family. But she manages to sneak upstairs to the library and finds freedom and inspiration in books.

This was tough to read. There is so much racism and violence and bullying on all sides. It was just really difficult to stomach all of that, and it made me upset. But it was definitely interesting to see this window into history and learn about the traditions of the Indian culture at this time.

I really liked Vidya's complex character. She is spunky and strong with a very independent personality. But she also makes mistakes and does dumb things sometimes. It was interesting to see her character development as she grows up and decides for herself what kind of life she wants to lead.