30 books that you can totally judge by their covers

Girls Burn Brighter – Shobha Rao

Shobha Rao’s Girls Burn Brighter is one of those literary fiction novels that made its way around the internet when it was first released. It’s instantly recognizable by its cover, which is simply a light background with fire engulfing the novel’s title. It doesn’t tell the reader much about what’s inside the book, but it leaves an impression.

For those wondering what is inside the book, Rao’s latest story is about two girls from India, Poornima and Savitha. When Poornima’s father hires Savitha, the two girls become quick friends, showing one another hope they didn’t previously believe existed.

Sadly, Savitha is driven away from Poornima’s home after something terrible and unexpected occurs. But Poornima is determined to find her friend again, no matter what it takes. She’s willing to journey to the worst parts of India, and even to the United States if necessary.

Girls Burn Brighter is an exploration of love and friendship, but it also highlights some of the horrors women must endure today. Covering serious social issues, like domestic violence and human trafficking, Rao’s story leaves a powerful and lasting impact, just like its cover art.