When You Ask Me Where I'm Going

A stunning debut novel exploring the Punjabi experience using poetry, illustrations, and prose—perfect for fans of Rupi Kaur & Elizabeth Acevedo.

“Kaur’s debut collection explores what it means to be a young woman in a world that not only fails to hear her but that often refuses to see her. The novel begins with poems that are more than pretty words; they carry weight and breathe fire. Power is reclaimed through self-acceptance and love.” —Booklist

scream

so that one day

a hundred years from now

another sister will not have to

dry her tears wondering

where in history

she lost her voice

Some poems are wrapped in silk and appear to be glistening gifts. Others cascade from the sky like violent hailstorms. At times, they are scattered across the landscape of lips and hide within closed fists.

Jasmine Kaur’s striking debut novel is divided into six sections that speak to readers in poems, prose, and illustrations and explore what it means to be a young woman living in a world that doesn’t always hear her. She tells the story of Kiran, who flees a history of trauma, and raises her daughter, Sahaara, while living undocumented in North America. This powerful narrative of resilience, healing, empowerment, and love will galvanize readers to fight for what is right in their world.

“Kaur’s elegant and informative poetry and prose packs a powerful punch. The gentle words empathize with and encourage readers, uplifting the soul, and praising every woman’s spirit.” —School Library Journal

“A searing and gorgeous debut. This book made me feel seen, but it also educated me—it’s sure to provoke many necessary and meaningful conversations.” —Jasmine Warga, author of Other Words for Home and My Heart and Other Black Holes

© 2019 HarperCollins (Audiobook): 9780062964311
© 2023 HarperCollins (Ebook): 9780062912633

Release date

Audiobook: October 1, 2019
Ebook: September 22, 2023