A review by bruhnette
Born Behind Bars by Padma Venkatraman

hopeful inspiring medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.0

Kabir was born in prison and has grown up there, living in a cell with his mother who was falsely accused of a crime. When a new warden takes over, Kabir is sent to live with a man who is only pretending to be his relative. He has nefarious plans for Kabir but fortunately, Kabir is a smart kid and is able to escape. With nowhere to go, he is lucky enough to befriend a homeless girl named Rani and she takes him under her wing. While parts of this book are sad, it is ultimately a swing-up book with themes of family and found family that will warm readers' hearts.

Thanks to Edelweiss for a review copy of this book.