On this episode of the KidLit Love podcast, I’m talking with author Maria Marianayagam about her newest middle grade novel: No Purchase Necessary.

This book is about a Sri Lanka boy’s life that spirals out of control when he wins a prize in a stolen candy bar, pushing him to navigate his identity amid his ever watchful family. 

Come listen as we talk about the threads that are evident across Maria’s book, the important themes found inside the book and the multiple entry points around candy cars, karate and poetry found inside the book.

Here are the books mentioned in this episode. You’ll find links to my Amazon and Bookshop affiliate stores below. Thanks for your bookish support!

No Purchase Necessary by Maria Marianayagam (Amazon)

The Amazing Power of Girls by Maria Marianayagam (Amazon / Bookshop)

Here’s where you can find Maria online:

Website: https://www.marianayagam.com/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msmarianayagam 

Twitter / X: https://x.com/msmarianayagam 

I’d love to know what you think of this episode. Share your comments below!