Nidhi Chanani’s Pashmina is celebrated for its vibrant artwork and authentic portrayal of cultural identity and womanhood. Readers appreciate its magical realism and engaging narrative. However, some find the plot too simplistic and the resolution hurried. Overall, it’s a well-received graphic novel offering a meaningful exploration of heritage and self-discovery.

Readers who would enjoy Nidhi Chanani's Pashmina are typically fans of graphic novels that blend heartfelt storytelling with cultural exploration, much like Gene Luen Yang's American Born Chinese or Raina Telgemeier's Smile. They appreciate themes of identity, family, and heritage, and enjoy visually engaging narratives.

Published in 2017, Pashmina by Nidhi Chanani follows Priyanka, a teenage girl in California, who discovers a magical pashmina in her mother’s suitcase that transports her to a fantastical version of India, sparking her curiosity about her family's history and cultural heritage. Her journey leads her to visit her aunt in real India, where she uncovers family secrets and embarks on a path of self-discovery. Descriptions of racist and xenophobic bullying appear in the book.

Fantastical / Emotional / Inspirational / Adventurous / Heartwarming

- Pashmina is Nidhi Chanani's debut graphic novel, showcasing her unique storytelling through vibrant illustrations and a blend of fantasy and cultural exploration.
- The novel highlights the cultural significance of pashmina shawls, intertwining their symbolism of warmth and heritage with the protagonist's journey of self-discovery.
- Pashmina explores themes of identity and empowerment, drawing from Chanani's own experiences as an Indian-American artist navigating multiple cultures.

**Priyanka Das**  
A teenage girl in high school embarking on a journey of cultural and personal discovery, guided by a magical pashmina. She is artistically talented and cares deeply about understanding her heritage.

**Nimisha**  
Priyanka's mother, who moved from India to the US as a teenager and is raising Priyanka independently. She grapples with her past and family secrets while trying to protect her daughter.

**Uncle Jatin**  
A father figure to Priyanka, he is a longtime family friend who, along with his wife Deepa, supports Priyanka through personal challenges. 

**Auntie Deepa**  
Priyanka's supportive family friend, whose pregnancy initially causes Priyanka to feel threatened but ultimately becomes part of Priyanka’s emotional growth.

**Baby Shilpa**  
The newborn daughter of Uncle Jatin and Auntie Deepa, whose birth challenges Priyanka to redefine her relationships and perceptions of family.

**Eddie**  
Priyanka's friend at school, who supports her artistic endeavors and offers companionship and encouragement throughout the story.

**Mr. Perry**  
Priyanka’s English teacher, who encourages her artistic talents and helps her navigate challenges related to cultural identity.

**Kanta and Mayur**  
Magical animal guides, a talking elephant and peacock respectively, who assist Priyanka on her journey through an idealized version of India.

**Meena Mausi**  
Priyanka's loving aunt in India, who provides an opportunity for Priyanka to connect with her heritage and uncover family history.

**Rohini Mitra**  
A mysterious figure in Priyanka’s magical visions, who seeks to share stories from the past and has insights into the magic of the pashmina.

**Shakti**  
A Hindu goddess representing feminine energy and empowerment, who plays a guiding role in Priyanka’s spiritual and personal journey.

Nidhi Chanani

Middle grade

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Fiction

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Pashmina

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