Gr 4–7—Nine-year-old Kabir was born in a Chennai jail but is forced to leave his mother behind when he "ages out"
of the women's prison. Nearly sold into labor, Kabir escapes and joins Rani, a young girl who lives on the streets.
Together they embark on a quest to find members of Kabir's family in another Indian state. Kabir's story is densely
packed with examinations of injustice, caste systems, housing insecurity, and more, but is masterfully balanced with
epic adventure and a hopeful conclusion.

Kabir has lived in jail since his birth, after his mother was arrested for a crime she did not commit. Jail officials discover Kabir is now too old to live there and he is turned out onto the streets. Kabir is determined to find his father who is living in Dubai so he can help get Amma out of jail. But life in jail hasn't taught him about living on the streets. Fortunately Rani, a street-savvy Roma child, befriends him and together they venture to find Kabir's grandparents. Kids who love stories with happy endings will have no quibbles with this idealistic if somewhat improbable journey with super-convenient plot twists. ( )

Kabir is being kicked out of prison, the only home he's ever known. He has to leave behind his mother. He never knew his father, and they haven't heard from him for years. Kabir's mom is Hindu and his dad was Muslim, so his dad never told his parents he was married. When Kabir's mom is arrested and sent to prison for stealing, never having a chance to go to trial, the family is separated.
Kabir is a character to cheer for! His dogged persistence, his way of getting a feel for people, and his openness to connecting with others including Rani, help him on his seemingly impossible journey. A touching story. ( )

A very sad subject that is never really talked about, but I feel that this was definitely toned down for the intended audience. ( )