A poignant coming-of-age novel-in-verse about an Indian-American girl who must find the courage to be herself and stand up to her bullies—for fans of Starfish and Red, White and Whole.

"All honesty and heart. It’s easy to root for Kapardini."—Andrea Beatriz Arango, Newbery Honor-winning author of Iveliz Explains It All

I’ve learned that I can braid
anything—even the bullies.
I sort out their words
making them neat and tight
placing them where they
cannot reach me.


    Eighth grade isn't going well for Kapardini. The bullies seem worse than ever, her friend Mariah has shut her out, and she cannot find her voice, afraid to speak even in class. Kapardini copes by braiding her hair ritually, as if by plaiting her experiences together she can keep her emotions tightly contained. Then a rumor reaches her—her classmates think she has a crush on Mariah. But that’s not true . . . or is it?
    Kapardini thinks back on her friendship with Mariah, about all the feelings she keeps buried, not ready to face. One thing is for certain: Kapardini is tired of all the hurtful words, tired of the storm of emotions swirling inside her, waiting to be free. Something must change.
    An achingly beautiful novel in verse about a girl learning how to find her voice, stand up to her bullies, and make space for her truest self.