Yasemin and Nirmala: A Tale of Two Teens

Book excerpt: It’s difficult enough being a teenage girl. Add to that being an immigrant, and then having a disability as well. That’s life for both Yasemin and Nirmala. They struggle with what they perceive as their ‘unfinished’ bodies – Yasemin lost her arm in a car accident and Nirmala was born with cerebral palsy. When the end-of-the-year performance "Seussical the Musical" approaches, the two girls desperately want to take part, but are afraid they will be rejected and laughed at. However, as their bond grows, they discover their potential and overcome their fears. Together, they learn they are unstoppable. This story offers a glimpse into the challenges of teen life in today’s immigrant societies. A diverse cast of characters offers a wide array of perspectives into the complex journey towards adulthood. While everyone is born different, our dreams unite us.