Chanda's Secrets is a book written by Allan Stratton which was published in 2004. The book revolves around the character of Chanda, who is a 16 year old girl. Chanda's younger sister, Sarah dies and this brings immense grief to her family. Chanda's mother is struck with grief and becomes very ill and Chanda's step-father goes on a drinking binge in order to get over the death of Sarah. However, Chanda soon comes to suspect that her mother may in fact be suffering from AIDS. Chanda has to deal with this suspicion and her worries become even worse when her mother goes on a trip and does not return. Chanda overcomes her situation by having and belief in that everything will be fine and that she will prosper.
The book was written by the author to depict the reality of the situation in Africa, which children face each day. The author wanted to portray the hardship that African students go through - especially those who are bright and want to make something of themselves but are unable to do so due to their situation and circumstances. The author was also inspired to write this book especially after visiting Africa and seeing first-hand the poverty and AIDS suffered by citizens.
Chanda's Secrets has been received very well by critics and fans. The book has won American Library Association's Michael L. Printz Honor Book for Excellence in Young Adult Literature and the African Studies Association's Children's Africana Book Award for Best Book for the Older Reader. The story has also been turned into a full-feature film.
