Strange Girls by Sarvat Hasin
“Strange Girls” by Sarvat Hasin is an emotionally layered exploration of the relationship between Ava and Aliya, two young women who were once inseparable but are now estranged. The novel begins with their reunion at a mutual friend’s bachelorette after a decade apart. From there, Hasin carefully unravels their story, inviting readers to piece together where things fell apart.
One of Hasin’s greatest strengths is her refusal to simplify conflict. The novel does not shy away from sitting in characters’ gray areas, where neither Ava nor Aliya is fully right or wrong. Their estrangement feels natural and real, driven by diverging life choices, insecurity, and resentment. Throughout the book, I found myself empathizing with both sides almost equally. The non-linear narrative structure adds another layer of intrigue that kept me engaged.
Equally effective is the novel’s commitment to “showing” rather than telling, particularly when it comes to cultural context. It subtly explores differences in expectations, identity, and upbringing without over-explaining or reducing characters to stereotypes. This makes the world feel lived-in and respects the reader’s ability to interpret nuance, while also deepening the emotional stakes. The pressures and decisions Ava and Aliya face emerge organically. Ava’s dynamic with her mother and Aliya’s marriage serve as mirrors and counterpoints to the central friendship, highlighting not only their differences but also their unexpected similarities.
Hasin also trusts the reader to sit with ambiguity by telling the story from two perspectives. This allows moments of misunderstanding or tension to take on new meaning when seen from the other side, reinforcing the idea that no relationship can be fully understood from a single point of view.
Overall, “Strange Girls” is an engaging and thoughtful read that left me wanting more. Hasin captures something deeply recognizable about the evolution of friendship and relationships over time, making this a story that resonates long after it ends.
Click here to read my review on Brown Girl Bookshelf.
