Driving by Starlight, by Anat Deracine
In this debut YA friendship story set in Saudi Arabia, two girls navigate typical teen issues―crushes, college, family expectations, future hopes, and dreams.
Sixteen-year-olds Leena and Mishie are best friends. They
delight in small rebellions against the Saudi cultural police―secret Western
clothing, forbidden music, flirtations. But Leena wants college,
independence―she wants a different life. Though her story is specific to her
world (a world where it's illegal for women to drive, where a ten-year-old boy
is the natural choice as guardian of a fatherless woman), ultimately it's a
story about friendship, family, and freedom that transcends cultural
differences.
"Leena’s commanding voice conveys her desperation,
courage, and intellect in a riveting, ultimately exhilarating
page-turner." ―Publishers Weekly, starred review
"The fast-paced narrative and unexpected twists make
for an engaging yet educational novel with a powerful message about the
complexities of being a woman in a man's world." ―Kirkus Reviews, starred
review
"nuanced (even raw) characterization and a twisting
plot make this narrative stand out." ―The Horn Book
