Readers who enjoy Ask Me No Questions by Marina Budhos are often interested in YA novels that tackle immigration, identity, and social justice, similar to The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas and Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan. They appreciate compelling narratives that reflect the complexities of contemporary socio-political issues.

Ask Me No Questions by Marina Budhos follows Bangladeshi teenage sisters Nadira and Aisha as they navigate life in post-9/11 New York City with expired visas. Their family’s request for asylum in Canada is denied, leading to their father's detention in the US. While Aisha excels academically but struggles with her undocumented status, Nadira discovers inner strength amidst family crises, ultimately helping their father secure a new chance at residency.

Ask Me No Questions by Marina Budhos delves into the immigrant experience post-9/11, highlighting the struggles of a Bangladeshi family facing deportation. Reviews praise its emotional depth and timely subject, though some critics feel the character development falls short. Overall, it’s a compelling read that fosters empathy and awareness of immigration issues.

Informative / Emotional / Challenging / Melancholic / Contemplative

**Nadira**  
The protagonist and narrator of the story, who begins as a patient and reserved young girl feeling overshadowed by her sister and gradually assumes a more assertive role as she faces her family's challenges.

**Aisha**  
Nadira's older sister, who initially embodies success and ambition but faces mounting pressure as the family's immigration situation becomes more dire, leading her to reassess her identity and beliefs.

**Tareq**  
A rebellious school dropout who appears only briefly but represents the challenges and limited options faced by young immigrants, offering Nadira a counterfeit solution to her legal issues.

**Abba**  
The father of Nadira and Aisha, whose decision to overstay visas sets off the family's struggles, characterized by his dreams and moral compass in contrast to the immediate realities of being undocumented. 

**Taslima**  
A young woman attending college who symbolizes the assimilation into American culture among immigrants, embracing new experiences and forming relationships outside traditional cultural boundaries.

Marina Budhos

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