The Night Diary, by Veera Hiranandani

This book is about the partition of India. In 1947, India was freed from British rule, and the largest mass-migration in history occurred, as India split into two countries: Pakistan and ‘New’ India. Conflict between Hindus and Muslims made many areas unsafe, and thousands of families had to migrate. Crossing the border was incredibly dangerous, and it is estimated that 1 million people lost their lives.

The story is told in the diary entries of a young girl called Nisha whose Hindu family flees from Pakistan. I never knew that diary entries could be so immersive and engaging - the story was told so well. Your heart really goes out for the young girl and all the families that had to cross the borders in either direction.

How dyslexia-friendly is it?

Despite being incredibly moving and educational, I thought this book was also very accessible. It has a gorgeous map at the front, it is written in simple and easy to read language, and although there are plenty of words that are commonly used in India and Pakistan, there is a glossary at the back of the book with these terms in. The diary entries are mostly short, and the font is clear and large. This is a book that is suitable for younger readers, but I think adults would benefit so much from reading this, and it doesn’t really feel like a typical YA book.