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Bullying And Islamophobia Focus Of New YA Novel 'Here To Stay'

Author Sara Farizan discusses her new novel "Here to Stay," which centers on a young man of Iranian and Jordanian descent who becomes the target of a cyberbully.
"Here to Stay," by Sara Farizan. (Robin Lubbock/WBUR)

Author Sara Farizan‘s new novel “Here to Stay” centers on a young man of Iranian and Jordanian descent who becomes the target of a cyberbully.

Farizan (@SaraFarizanjoins Here & Now‘s Lisa Mullins to talk about the book.

Book Excerpt: ‘Here to Stay’

by Sara Farizan

CHAPTER ONE

“Damn,” Coach Johnson muttered. “That’s four fouls, Drew!” he shouted to our King James. “B, you’re in.” This is where all the trouble started. I sometimes wonder what would have happened if Drew had never fouled out.

I had it in my head that if I became popular, every day would feel like my birthday. I’d have no trouble talking to girls and I’d be admired by my peers at the Granger School. I did not think everything would turn to crap salad in

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