Interview with Reem Faruqi
Padma Venkatraman interviews Diverse Verse member Reem Faruqi about her latest novel in verse, CALL ME ADNAN, which is a Junior Library Guild Gold Standard selection! In a starred review, Publishers Weekly says:
"Faruqi renders this tender story of loss with a deft hand, employing vivid details surrounding Adnan’s Pakistani Muslim identity... and nuanced characterizations to present a tear-jerking ode to family."—Publishers Weekly (starred review)
Reem Faruqi is the award-winning children’s book author of “Lailah’s Lunchbox,” a book based on her own experiences as a young Muslim girl immigrating to the United States. She’s also the author of “Amira’s Picture Day,” “I Can Help,” “Milloo’s Mind,” “Anisa’s International Day,” and three middle grade novels in verse, “Unsettled,” “Golden Girl,” and “Call Me Adnan,” many of which received starred reviews. After surviving Atlanta traffic and the school drop off, Reem spends her days trying to write, but instead gets distracted easily by her camera and buttery sunlight. Reem Faruqi lives in Atlanta with her husband and daughters. You can find her at www.ReemFaruqi.com or on Instagram or Twitter.
Padma Venkatraman: If I’m right, you have written 3 Novel Center Verse so far. What attracts you most to writing novels in this form?
REEM FARUQI: Verse feels more natural and easier for me. I love how the words can pack an emotional punch.
Padma Venkatraman: Are there any poets in particular or poems specifically that you loved as a child?
REEM FARUQI:I didn't read a lot of poetry as a child but I vividly remember Sandra Cisneros THE HOUSE ON MANGO STREET and loving the poetic language.
Padma Venkatraman: Do you have any suggestions for activities or discussion topics for teachers who might want to use CALL ME ADNAN in the classroom?
REEM FARUQI: There are many topics that teachers might choose to discuss that are also found in the novel, including Table Tennis, Water Safety, Sibling Relationships, Grief and the Role of Faith
Padma Venkatraman: Thanks for taking the time to chat, Reem! Here’s wishing you and Annan the very best!
