The best book I read this month was a refreshing break from my usual line-up of murder mysteries and Stephen King horror stories. I picked up Hana Khan Carries On because of its cover. It’s bright and colorful and a visible contrast to all the black covers on my bookshelves. (Apparently, black is the color of choice for books about murder.)

Hana Khan Carries On tells the story of a young Muslim Canadian woman and her quest to save her family’s restaurant and launch her own radio career. Along the way, she deals with visiting relatives, the owners of a rival restaurant, an online flirtation, and a boss with her own agenda. In the story’s climax, Hana must come to terms with a hate crime. Of course, because this is ultimately a romance, the story ends with Hana finding her version of a happily ever after.

I found Jalaluddin’s story and writing delightful. Hana is a compelling main character. Her cousin, Rashid, is part hero and part comic relief. Her visiting aunty is equally colorful.

This book just was the bit of sunshine I needed.