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The Door Is Open: Stories of Celebration and Community by 11 Desi Voices
Discover stories of fear, triumph, and spectacular celebration in this warm-hearted novel of interconnected stories that celebrates the diversity of South Asian American experiences in a local community center.
Discover stories of fear, triumph, and spectacular celebration in the fictional town of Maple Grove, New Jersey, where the local kids gather at the community center to discover new crushes, fight against ignorance, and even save a life. Cheer for Chaya as she wins chess tournaments (unlike Andrew, she knows stupid sugary soda won't make you better at chess), and follow as Jeevan learns how to cook traditional food (it turns out he can cook sabji-- he just can't eat it).
These stories, edited by bestselling and award-winning Pakistani-American author Hena Khan, are filled with humor, warmth, and possibility. They showcase a diverse array of talented authors with heritage from the Indian subcontinent, including beloved favorites and rising stars, who each highlight the beauty and necessity of a community center that everyone calls home.
Discover stories of fear, triumph, and spectacular celebration in the fictional town of Maple Grove, New Jersey, where the local kids gather at the community center to discover new crushes, fight against ignorance, and even save a life. Cheer for Chaya as she wins chess tournaments (unlike Andrew, she knows stupid sugary soda won't make you better at chess), and follow as Jeevan learns how to cook traditional food (it turns out he can cook sabji-- he just can't eat it).
These stories, edited by bestselling and award-winning Pakistani-American author Hena Khan, are filled with humor, warmth, and possibility. They showcase a diverse array of talented authors with heritage from the Indian subcontinent, including beloved favorites and rising stars, who each highlight the beauty and necessity of a community center that everyone calls home.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published April 23, 2024
About the author
Hena Khan
49 books481 followersHena Khan writes books in a multitude of formats, including picture books, middle grade fiction, pick-your-path adventures, and graphic novels. Her stories are often centered around community, friendship, and family, and draw from her own experiences and culture. Hena’s novels include AMINA'S VOICE, MORE TO THE STORY, and DRAWING DEENA. She is the author of the Zayd Saleem Chasing the Dream, Zara’s Rules, and Super You! series. Hena’s picture books include GOLDEN DOMES AND SILVER LANTERNS, UNDER MY HIJAB, and IT'S RAMADAN, CURIOUS GEORGE, among others.
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
April 28, 2024
The Door is Open is a collection of interconnected short stories that celebrate the diversity among South Asian Americans. The book features eleven different Desi voices, each sharing a standalone tale from the perspective of middle school characters. However, the stories are tied together by a common thread in the community center setting. The stories cover many topics, such as life lessons, coming of age, and middle school struggles, while showcasing how kids can come together for a common goal. Some of the stories are downright hilarious, such as the story of Jeevan, an Indian middle schooler who despises Indian food but is forced to take an Indian cooking class. Overall, the book offers a sense of celebration and triumph - a genuine, heartwarming story.
The physical book includes charming illustrations at the start of each chapter and some mixed media with the short stories. I combined it with the audiobook, wonderfully narrated by Anjali Kunapaneni and Vikas Adam. Like other books showcasing diverse voices, languages, and cultures, I appreciated hearing the proper pronunciation of names, dishes, and expressions.
The physical book includes charming illustrations at the start of each chapter and some mixed media with the short stories. I combined it with the audiobook, wonderfully narrated by Anjali Kunapaneni and Vikas Adam. Like other books showcasing diverse voices, languages, and cultures, I appreciated hearing the proper pronunciation of names, dishes, and expressions.
May 10, 2024
Absolutely wonderful. I love these authors, but I wasn't looking forward to a book of short stories UNTIL... I realized all these stories are set in the same community! Each author offers their own unique voice, highlighting different cultures, ethnic groups, languages, and religions in the Indian subcontinent into a beautiful holistic community. Masterful. I am obsessed.
April 23, 2024
An important and uplifting collection of short stories by South Asian American writers featuring South Asian American characters and themes.
The Door Is Open: Stories of Celebration and Community by 11 Desi Voices was conceived and edited by Hena Khan and is a wonderfully uplifting collection of short stories by and about South Asian Americans. The stories capture vibrant slices of community life and precious family moments, all connected through the social hub of the local community center.
While each story comes from a different author, common threads run throughout and tie the parts into a wonderful whole. Each story is a gem in its own right and self-contained, and there is a much-appreciated section about the contributors at the end of the book that includes each one’s previous works for readers to seek out and binge. The main characters are middle-grade students, for the most part, with younger and older siblings, parents, uncles, and aunties in supporting roles, and the diversity of the cultures and religions of South Asia are represented. There are stories of joy and sadness, coming-of-age moments, personal triumphs, and many emotional moments to absorb. Readers not part of the represented groups can also enjoy all the stories, relate to many of the depicted situations, or learn something new and interesting. There are several very teachable moments to share.I recommend THE DOOR IS OPEN to middle-grade and chapter book readers, especially those interested in South Asian American culture, community, and experiences.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy through TBR and Beyond Book Tours.
May 15, 2024
Chicken Soup For The Modern Tween’s Soul
Quotes📖
This is just the ending of today's story. Tomorrow, in the future, all the parts of me that make me who I am will start a new one.
During that time, the queen chess piece started to change into what she is now. My queen is not like Isabella. My queen protects all her people.
Thoughts: 💡
This book reminded me of Chicken Soup For The Soul but focused specifically on Desi, South Asian, and South Asian American voices.
It sucked me in from the beginning with a story about chess and the rampant prejudice and misogynistic ideas in the community. It had Check & Mate vibes but was age appropriate for a 10 year old (i.e. no romance, cursing, etc. just some kids hopped up on Mountain Dew).
That story transitioned to another with a different MC with different struggles but was set in the same community center. Each story had a different theme and different struggles but each of them were well written and compelling. There’s something for every kid in this book.
✨Note:✨Each story was written by a different author but they were all edited and compiled into this anthology by Hana Khan.
⚠️Content Warning:⚠️
Confronts difficult topics like racism, prejudices, and misogyny
Stats:📊
Ages 8 & Up
Middle Grade Short Stories
Out Now (April 24, 2024)
Each chapter is a different story by a different author
Quotes📖
This is just the ending of today's story. Tomorrow, in the future, all the parts of me that make me who I am will start a new one.
During that time, the queen chess piece started to change into what she is now. My queen is not like Isabella. My queen protects all her people.
Thoughts: 💡
This book reminded me of Chicken Soup For The Soul but focused specifically on Desi, South Asian, and South Asian American voices.
It sucked me in from the beginning with a story about chess and the rampant prejudice and misogynistic ideas in the community. It had Check & Mate vibes but was age appropriate for a 10 year old (i.e. no romance, cursing, etc. just some kids hopped up on Mountain Dew).
That story transitioned to another with a different MC with different struggles but was set in the same community center. Each story had a different theme and different struggles but each of them were well written and compelling. There’s something for every kid in this book.
✨Note:✨Each story was written by a different author but they were all edited and compiled into this anthology by Hana Khan.
⚠️Content Warning:⚠️
Confronts difficult topics like racism, prejudices, and misogyny
Stats:📊
Ages 8 & Up
Middle Grade Short Stories
Out Now (April 24, 2024)
Each chapter is a different story by a different author
April 24, 2024
Explore the tales of young Desi teenagers through this novel.
Welcome to the fictional town of Maple Grove, New Jersey, where the locals of all cultures, most notably the South Asian cultures, gather at the Community Center to celebrate, live, laugh, and love. Read this brilliant array of talented desi authors' beautifully crafted stories that tackle the themes of triumph and fighting for what's right.
This book was truly an enjoyable and heartwarming experience. As I read the pages, I immersed myself in the fascinating stories of the desi authors I knew. Their writing reminded me of the fantastic stories I had read before, and it was an absolute pleasure to relive them again.
Each of the book's characters has unique personalities and goals, making them relatable and interesting. I rooted for them throughout the book, and their stories left a lasting impression on me.
If you're looking for a book that will inspire you and celebrate our uniqueness, I highly recommend this one. It can touch the hearts of anyone who loves a good story filled with hope and inspiration.
Happy Reading, Paige ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @tbrbeyondtours & @littlebrownforyoungreaders, for sending me a copy of your book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Welcome to the fictional town of Maple Grove, New Jersey, where the locals of all cultures, most notably the South Asian cultures, gather at the Community Center to celebrate, live, laugh, and love. Read this brilliant array of talented desi authors' beautifully crafted stories that tackle the themes of triumph and fighting for what's right.
This book was truly an enjoyable and heartwarming experience. As I read the pages, I immersed myself in the fascinating stories of the desi authors I knew. Their writing reminded me of the fantastic stories I had read before, and it was an absolute pleasure to relive them again.
Each of the book's characters has unique personalities and goals, making them relatable and interesting. I rooted for them throughout the book, and their stories left a lasting impression on me.
If you're looking for a book that will inspire you and celebrate our uniqueness, I highly recommend this one. It can touch the hearts of anyone who loves a good story filled with hope and inspiration.
Happy Reading, Paige ❤️ 📚
Thank you, @tbrbeyondtours & @littlebrownforyoungreaders, for sending me a copy of your book. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 15, 2024
E ARC provided by Edelweiss
I love short story collections that highlight authors who share some aspects of cultural backgrounds, like Ali and Saeed's Once Upon an Eid, because it helps me to introduce a variety of new authors to my students. Like Oh's You Are Here collection of interconnected short stories set at the Chicago O'Hare Airport, The Door is Open is centered around the community center in Maple Grove, New Jersey and follows the adventures of a variety of children there. The teachers in my school are assigning more and more short story collections to students, which is a great idea, and this one will be a great addition to my growing collection of culturally connected short stories.
I love short story collections that highlight authors who share some aspects of cultural backgrounds, like Ali and Saeed's Once Upon an Eid, because it helps me to introduce a variety of new authors to my students. Like Oh's You Are Here collection of interconnected short stories set at the Chicago O'Hare Airport, The Door is Open is centered around the community center in Maple Grove, New Jersey and follows the adventures of a variety of children there. The teachers in my school are assigning more and more short story collections to students, which is a great idea, and this one will be a great addition to my growing collection of culturally connected short stories.
March 5, 2024
I found great delight in the book, particularly appreciating the collection of short stories it presented. The varied narratives added a rich layer to the overall reading experience. Assigning a rating of 4/5 reflects my positive impression. "Can I Get an Amen" captured my attention with its compelling storyline, leaving me intrigued about the possibility of a second volume.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire book team for generously sending me this book as a gift. It truly enhanced my reading journey, and I'm eagerly anticipating any future releases from this talented team.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the entire book team for generously sending me this book as a gift. It truly enhanced my reading journey, and I'm eagerly anticipating any future releases from this talented team.
April 23, 2024
a collection of short stories for middle grade readers, about a community center where the desi community celebrates, grieves, learns. Each kid has a story about the center.
For myself, the stories were too simple. However, as a middle grade teacher, these stories would be eye opening. The second to last story really resonated with me. A young girl shares her name, and the sub keeps asking her where she’s from, even though she’s born in Ohio to a mother born in Massachusetts and a father born in London. Even in a name, there is belonging. A powerful lesson from a powerful book. Also now I want some desi food.
For myself, the stories were too simple. However, as a middle grade teacher, these stories would be eye opening. The second to last story really resonated with me. A young girl shares her name, and the sub keeps asking her where she’s from, even though she’s born in Ohio to a mother born in Massachusetts and a father born in London. Even in a name, there is belonging. A powerful lesson from a powerful book. Also now I want some desi food.
April 23, 2024
Hena Khan is a profound author who possesses a real talent to speak to her readers, across generations and cultures, and create a connection. She once again harnesses this power for the greater good of literature to edit eleven short stories from the Desi community to share with the world. The Door is Open is an exquisite collection of short stories that are at once simple and relatable to middle grade readers, yet profound and moving. Readers of all ages will delight in the beautiful stories, relating to so many aspects while also accumulating a wealth of new knowledge of cultures and unique experiences.
April 16, 2024
In this book, there are many short stories that celebrate South Asian Americans and all of them all point back to the Maple Grove Community Center in NJ.
I enjoyed this book very much and I loved learning more about the South Asian culture. Each story is different, but the take away from all the stories is to be open and accepting or something/anything that's different than the norm. When you are able to do that, you are able to open you heart up to many more lovely things that life has to offer.
I enjoyed this book very much and I loved learning more about the South Asian culture. Each story is different, but the take away from all the stories is to be open and accepting or something/anything that's different than the norm. When you are able to do that, you are able to open you heart up to many more lovely things that life has to offer.
April 22, 2024
11 stories by 11 talented authors! I really loved this, I haven’t read a book like this before (that I can remember) but I love how even though it’s told from many different voices it all flows really well together. I like how each chapter is a different character that we heard and learn and see from but it doesn’t feel like you’re missing out on a whole story being about that one specific character. It’s also nice that they are all working together towards the same thing (to save the community center)
April 29, 2024
This book was simply amazing, and right on time with AANHPI month starting next week. It is a great read and resource for children and everyone with many lessons in each story. I enjoyed all of the stories, and some of my favorites include Check yourself, Alok at the Dance, The Map of Home, Answered Prayers, and Out In The Open. It has South Asian American representation and was written so beautifully, I could imagine each and every story. It is a must read.
May 14, 2024
A junior high aged collection of longish short stories that center around a public meeting place that caters to the South Asian immigrant community for a wide variety of social gatherings. When it is leaked that the venue might be closed down the teens all try to help keep the place open. The stories are told from a wide variety of cultures try to help and the stories offer readers a valuable look into these groups and what is important to them.
April 7, 2024
It has been awhile since I've read any short stories and this was a delightful experience! Each story is unique with rich characters and diverse backgrounds! It's a great addition to any library and one the kids will enjoy! Thank you Tbr and Beyond Tours, Hana Khan and Little Brown Books for Young Readers for sharing this book with me!
February 4, 2024
This cute and uplifting middle great anthology is reminiscent of ONCE UPON AN EID.
"Wedding Blues" was my favorite, and "Sweet and Sour" and "Can I Get an Ameen" also stuck out to me. I would like to know if they saved the community center.
Thank you LBYR for the review copy.
"Wedding Blues" was my favorite, and "Sweet and Sour" and "Can I Get an Ameen" also stuck out to me. I would like to know if they saved the community center.
Thank you LBYR for the review copy.
May 10, 2024
My only complaint is with the last story. It's about racism, stereotypes and caricatures but at the same time uses stereotypes types and caricatures of substitute teachers as if subs are all racist, competent buffoons. Otherwise that story was well-written.
May 14, 2024
some of these definitely need to be written into full books!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews