Yasmin the Scientist [Paperback]

Series has received starred reviews from Kirkus and School Library Journal and is included on Girls of the Crescent Recommended Reading List and others;#Ownvoices author Saadi Faruqi subtly weaves Muslim traditions into fun, relatable stories;Short chapters and easy-to-follow storylines foster reading independence and pride;Perfect for beginning readers who love Katie Woo, Sofia Martinez, and Pedro;Second grader Yasmin needs an idea for the school science fair. Baba offers to help her make a volcano, but in ­inimitable Y­asmin style, she creates an experiment that’s uniquely her own. Supported by ­caring adults at school and a loving, multigenerational home, Yasmin is relatable, inspirational, and charming. Aly’s vibrant full-color art has a hip, retro 1960s feel and perfectly captures Yasmin’s wide-eyed curiosity. It’s a perfectly designed early reader with plenty of white space, no more than six words per line, and a balance of long and short sentences. Back matter encourages readers to learn simple Urdu words like salaam (hello) and shukriya (thank you). Fun facts about Pakistan, such as the country’s flag, popular foods, and spoken languages, are included. Bringing the book to a fizzy, delightful end is the recipe for Yasmin’s drinkable science project. ­VERDICT Highly recommended for all early reader collections.In this joyful, reassuring series, a second-grader solves typical kid problems like getting separated from her parents when they’re shopping, and spilling on her clothes. Faruqi, who was born in Pakistan, integrates the country’s customs into the plots. Full-color illustrations throughout make this series even more engaging, says Parents advisor Jennifer Serravallo, author of The Reading Strategies Book. 12 books, ages 5 to 8Everyone seems to have an idea for the science fair except for Yasmin! After some failed experiments, Yasmin’s snacklƒ