It’s 1947, and India is gaining independence from British rule and splitting into two countries, India and Pakistan. At first there are hints of political and religious troubles, but then the violence and rioting become dangerous, and Nisha’s family— her brother, her Hindu father, and her grandmother—must leave behind their home, their belongings, and, perhaps worst of all, their dear Muslim cook and flee on a long, terrifying walk to cross the new border to safety.

You don’t have to be interested in religion or the politics of India to enjoy this book. If you pick it up, you’ll be caught up in Nisha’s story, and you’ll hold your breath as she experiences difficulties that are hard to imagine on her journey. But she continues to write and sort through her emotions.

Perhaps you write and you know how powerful it can be to put your feelings into words. Perhaps you love to cook, like Nisha. Or just maybe you can’t understand how people can still be torn apart by religion. Maybe you’ll even see a connection between Nisha’s journey and those families who are fleeing violence now in their own countries. However you connect, you will connect with this girl whose voice and spirit come through in every page, and you will keep turning the pages to the end! (New Hampshire Great Stone Face Book Award nominee, 2020)

Booktalk #2

Step back in time into the life of twelve-year old half Hindu/half Muslim Nisha living in 1947 India and newly formed Pakistan.  That year will bring many changes and heartbreak as Nisha’s country is divided, along with her family and those she loves. Discover through letters written to her deceased mother via her diary whether her family will stay together and make it a new home where they will not be persecuted for being Hindu. (Prepared by:Angela Thoele, Chapin Middle School, athoele@lexrich5.org) 
 (South Carolina Book Awards, 2020-2021)

Booktalk #3

How many of you write in a journal or a diary? What do you write about in your diary? Imagine that you were 12-year-old Nisha, the main character in The Night Diary. You would be writing about Pakistan in 1947. Along with your twin brother, father, and grandmother, you must leave your homeland as the former part of India is declared for Muslims. Times are harsh and staying safe is a challenge. While this is a historical fiction novel, the migration led to the death of one million people. Will everyone in Nisha’s family survive and what will you learn in the diary? Read this Newbery Honor award winning novel to find out. (Pennsylvania Young Reader’s Choice Award 2020-2021)