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Aru Shah and the End of Time by Roshani Chokshi

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Brief synopsis (no spoilers): Aru spends most of her time lying about how awesome her life is, but when she takes one lie too far she sets off a chain of events that becomes much more than she bargained for. 

Category: Juv/YA fic

Why I chose this book: Recommended by Rick Riordan  

My personal opinion: This book is exactly like Rick Riordan's books on Greek and Egyptian mythology - snarky misfit teenager of single parent swept up in to an adventure. The writing style is slightly less mature and Aru and Mini both end up being annoying at some points. However, there were enough different elements with the Indian and Hindu culture that it kept my interest, even though I knew the basic story plot from other RR novels. I do feel like I was given a short introduction to culture and have an interest in learning more. Overall, if you like early RR you will probably enjoy this one too.  

Warnings:
Language: None
Violence: Nothing gory
"Adult" situations: None
Death: None 

Movie rating equivalent: PG

Protagonist description: Aru lives with her Mom at the Museum of Anciant Indian Art and Culture. She just wants her Mom to notice her and spend time with her and wants to fit in with her classmates. She is young and immature at times, but she wants to do the right thing. She gains some confidence and learns to use her unique talents as the book progresses.  

Point of view of story: 3rd person 

Book length: shorter side of medium

Story flow: Linear

Grammar and spelling issues: Lots of Indian and Hindu names, places, and words. There is a short glossary at the end of the book and descriptions in the story that help the reader know what they are. 

Character connection (no spoilers): Would love to know more background on Boo and Aru's mother. 

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