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“Massey gives this semi-autobiographical tale life and humor through Harriet’s unabashed inner voice…. A great story from an author who knows firsthand about growing up Iranian on U.S. soil.”

—Booklist

“This well-paced laugh-out-loud narrative is rich in food references, cultural tensions, Farsi expressions, and meddling relatives. The story thoughtfully explores Harriet’s longing to fit in when her family customs make her stand out…. A funny, heartfelt tale of cultural expectations, belonging, and speaking up for yourself.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“An exploration of culture, fitting in, and coming of age with well-developed characters and situations, and with wit woven into the struggles of a determined sixth grader.”

—School Library Journal

My Name Is Harriet Mansoor (NOT Hairy Man Suit!)

Written by Haleh Massey
Illustrated by Rashin Kheiriyeh
Published by Tu Books

Eleven-year-old Hangameh “Harriet” Mansoor really needs to catch a break. Puberty gifted her a big nose and bushy eyebrows, which make her stick out even more than being the only Iranian girl among all her blonde, blue-eyed classmates. But the sixth-grade camping trip to Camp Cottontail could be the perfect opportunity to turn her middle-school fate around. She’d finally have a little space from her over-protective parents and moody older sister; she’d have some serious fun with her best friend Cathy; and she’d maybe even gather up the courage to talk to her long-time crush, Jeremy.

Unfortunately, a string of terrible luck threatens everything. Her bully, Sarah Gill, starts to date Jeremy and when she catches a glimpse of Harriet’s unshaved legs, she gives Harriet an awful nickname: Hairy Man Suit. But worst of all, her parents announce that money problems might force them to move all the way back to Iran–and soon–sending her far away from her best friend and everything she knows. While Harriet usually tries to blend in as much as possible and keep the peace, she’ll have to speak up and stand up if she wants to solve any of these catastrophes. But can she do it before her family packs up everything to leave the country?

Primary ISBN: 9781643797540
Publication Date: May 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Los Angeles CA)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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