Molikaa Rasiah’s Not What I Expected is a tender and honest coming-of-age story told through the eyes of Jiyah, a fourth-grade girl navigating the rocky terrain of friendships, identity, and self-worth. The story follows her as she prepares for and attends a classmate’s birthday party, an event that unravels into a full-blown personal reckoning. Over the course of the day, Jiyah wrestles with rejection, confusion, and loneliness, ultimately finding her inner strength through a set of self-soothing techniques she calls “superpowers.” What seems like a simple slice-of-life tale becomes a powerful look at how children manage social complexity and personal anxiety.

This book resonated with me personally. The writing is simple but purposeful. It’s intended for younger readers, yes, but it still managed to pull me in and hold me there. Rasiah never talks down to her audience, which I appreciated. Instead, she gives kids a clear and compassionate voice that feels real. Jiyah’s thoughts aren’t always pretty, and sometimes she stumbles in her efforts to do the right thing. But that’s what makes her lovable. I especially admired how Rasiah handled emotional tools like grounding exercises and breathing techniques. These aren’t just plot devices, they’re powerful lessons, folded naturally into the story without being preachy.

A few characters came off more like villains than believable fourth-graders. I would’ve liked a bit more subtlety there. But then again, maybe that’s the point. Kids can be harsh. They can also be brave, loyal, and thoughtful. Rasiah’s real strength is showing us all those sides in one go. It’s rare to find a book that’s both emotionally validating and practical. Jiyah’s “ring of power” isn’t just a bracelet, it’s a metaphor every anxious kid (and even some adults) could use.

I would recommend Not What I Expected to kids around ages 8–12, especially those who feel a little left out or overwhelmed by their social world. Parents and teachers could gain a lot from reading it with them, too. It’s an emotionally smart, gently empowering book that encourages empathy without sugarcoating real feelings.

Pages: 63 | ASIN : B0DVV9ZV2N