Plot Summary

Anita and Me

Meera Syal
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Anita and Me

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996

Book Brief

Meera Syal

Anita and Me

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1996
Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tollington, England • 1960s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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Super Short Summary

Anita and Me by Meera Syal follows nine-year-old Meena Kumar, a British-Indian girl in 1970s Tollington, as she navigates cultural identity, friendship, and the racism she faces. Meena befriends the rebellious Anita Rutter but later distances herself due to Anita's negative influence, ultimately focusing on her family and academics to achieve a brighter future.

Nostalgic

Contemplative

Humorous

Bittersweet

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.0

3,710 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Anita and Me by Meera Syal is praised for its poignant exploration of cultural identity and adolescence. Reviewers commend its humor and authentic voice but note occasional pacing issues. While celebrated for its rich character development and vivid depiction of 1970s Britain, some critiques mention predictable plot elements. Overall, it's a touching and insightful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Anita and Me?

Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories with cultural depth, satire, and a blend of humor and poignancy will appreciate Anita and Me by Meera Syal. Fans of The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian by Sherman Alexie and The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy will find similar themes and relatable characters.

4.0

3,710 ratings

65%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

9%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

336

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Tollington, England • 1960s

Publication Year

1996

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

13-18 years

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