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How To Win An Election A Most Unreliable Guide
The middle school elections are coming up and everyone is in a frenzy of making posters, promises and predictions.
When Sachin is disqualified from contesting the elections, he sets out to help his best friend Mini win. But their path to victory is littered with runaway lizards, incriminating bathroom graffiti, hacked videos and dangerous baked goods.
Which candidate fears Mini so much that they will descend to such villainy? Mini and Sachin must find out―or be disgraced forever.
When Sachin is disqualified from contesting the elections, he sets out to help his best friend Mini win. But their path to victory is littered with runaway lizards, incriminating bathroom graffiti, hacked videos and dangerous baked goods.
Which candidate fears Mini so much that they will descend to such villainy? Mini and Sachin must find out―or be disgraced forever.
- GenresFiction
232 pages, Paperback
Published March 4, 2024
2 people are currently reading
19 people want to read
About the author
Menaka Raman
21 books16 followersAs a child Menaka Raman used to write far-fetched stories about birthday parties, water parks and floating cake disasters. Since then, her life has been a series of fortunate events that led her far away from becoming a software engineer and set her back on the path of writing. She is a former advertising copywriter who chucked creating ads for plastic chairs and time share holidays to write about other things. She has been a newspaper columnist for over a decade now and enjoys working with non-profits. She is the author of nine picture books for children including Gappu Can’t Dance, Lenin’s Guests and I Love Me. Her short stories have appeared in anthologies published by Talking Cub, Scholastic India and Penguin UK. She lives in Bangalore with her husband, two children and dog. When she is not killing plants and walking Woody the dog, she is eating Nutella straight from the jar.
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Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 reviews
May 27, 2024
Review - https://booksteacupreviews.com/2024/0...
How to Win An Election the adventurous election journey of two inseparable middle-grade friends, Sachin and Mini, as they navigate the school politics at Primus Academy. When Sachin's dream of running for the 8th-grade elections is dashed for not meeting all eligibility criteria, he embraces the role of Mini's self-appointed campaign manager.
However, their aspirations take an unexpected turn when a series of deliberate sabotages rock the school elections, leading to Sachin being accused for it. Determined to clear their names, the duo embarks on an investigation while battling against antidemocratic culprit.
The narrative is filled with hilarious preteen drama and the charming innocence of adolescence, accompanied by delightful illustrations that breathe life into Sachin and Mini's world.
At its core, the book features the enduring power of friendship, as Sachin and Mini weather storms of doubt and discord, emerging stronger and united in their pursuit of justice. It perfectly explores neurodivergent representation, how ADHD kids are misconstrued and also resilience and the complexities of adolescence, inviting readers to reflect on the nuances of friendship and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.
It also reflects on the dynamics of authority and the fragility of trust, shedding light on the disparity in treatment within educational institutions, how bright students are always favored while students struggling are subjected to humiliation. There authentic portrayal of middle-grade experiences and its thought-provoking discussion on democracy and leadership.
The whole plot and characters are so well written however, the end turned out unsatisfactory.
Overall, How To Win An Election is entertaining and enjoyable #middlegrade fiction with realistic and relatable approach to middle grade elections.
How to Win An Election the adventurous election journey of two inseparable middle-grade friends, Sachin and Mini, as they navigate the school politics at Primus Academy. When Sachin's dream of running for the 8th-grade elections is dashed for not meeting all eligibility criteria, he embraces the role of Mini's self-appointed campaign manager.
However, their aspirations take an unexpected turn when a series of deliberate sabotages rock the school elections, leading to Sachin being accused for it. Determined to clear their names, the duo embarks on an investigation while battling against antidemocratic culprit.
The narrative is filled with hilarious preteen drama and the charming innocence of adolescence, accompanied by delightful illustrations that breathe life into Sachin and Mini's world.
At its core, the book features the enduring power of friendship, as Sachin and Mini weather storms of doubt and discord, emerging stronger and united in their pursuit of justice. It perfectly explores neurodivergent representation, how ADHD kids are misconstrued and also resilience and the complexities of adolescence, inviting readers to reflect on the nuances of friendship and the importance of standing up for one's beliefs.
It also reflects on the dynamics of authority and the fragility of trust, shedding light on the disparity in treatment within educational institutions, how bright students are always favored while students struggling are subjected to humiliation. There authentic portrayal of middle-grade experiences and its thought-provoking discussion on democracy and leadership.
The whole plot and characters are so well written however, the end turned out unsatisfactory.
Overall, How To Win An Election is entertaining and enjoyable #middlegrade fiction with realistic and relatable approach to middle grade elections.
May 4, 2024
Full review on the blog:
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2024/05/bo...
Sachin Samuel Ramanathan always dreamt of contesting in the elections for Primus Academy and become captain of the Red House. But he accumulated four discipline slips though the school reopened only a month back and had a cumulative of fifty-two slips from the time he joined this school. He was a day late for filing his nomination papers, the papers smelt of Gobi Manchurian after a dabba leak and turned to an unpleasant shade of brown after being smothered with Sachin’s muddy cricket shoes.
Though Sachin was initially disheartened that his nomination was rejected, he decided to become the campaign manager for his best friend Meenakshi Madhavan a.k.a Mini who was also contesting the elections. Mini though is the exact opposite of Sachin - always got A+ grades, favorite among the teachers, and is responsible. Mini’s promises for her school mates if she won included reduction in food wastage, composting and giving back to the community. Sachin’s tagline for Mini was Taco Tuesdays to entice the kids to vote for Mini.
However, Mini’s path to win in the elections is laced with hurdles at every corner — lizards, bathroom graffiti of other contestants, funny videos of the school Principal and blondies laced with laxatives. Is Sachin as Mini’s campaign manager at fault for all these mishaps or is someone intentionally sabotaging Mini’s campaign forms the rest of the story.
How to Win an Election is the story of two middle grade pre-teens who are contrasting personalities but best buddies, trying to win a school election. The family backdrops of Sachin and Mini, Sachin’s ADHD, Mini’s struggle to meet everyone’s expectations of her, are very sensibly portrayed by the author.
Sachin’s naughty antics complement Mini’s smartness perfectly, especially when they turn young detectives. Sachin’s habit of using fidget spinner and Mini’s to turn to poetry and rap in the middle of a crisis is interesting. The story also highlights how the opinions of the teachers will shape the kids thought process while growing up and hence it is important for the kids to have the right influences in their lives. The illustrations giving each of the election candidates a peculiar personality will catch the reader’s attention.
With election fever gripping the nation right now, How to Win an Election is the perfect pick for young kids this summer holidays. It is unputdownable till the end and thoroughly entertaining.
https://blog.medhaapps.com/2024/05/bo...
Sachin Samuel Ramanathan always dreamt of contesting in the elections for Primus Academy and become captain of the Red House. But he accumulated four discipline slips though the school reopened only a month back and had a cumulative of fifty-two slips from the time he joined this school. He was a day late for filing his nomination papers, the papers smelt of Gobi Manchurian after a dabba leak and turned to an unpleasant shade of brown after being smothered with Sachin’s muddy cricket shoes.
Though Sachin was initially disheartened that his nomination was rejected, he decided to become the campaign manager for his best friend Meenakshi Madhavan a.k.a Mini who was also contesting the elections. Mini though is the exact opposite of Sachin - always got A+ grades, favorite among the teachers, and is responsible. Mini’s promises for her school mates if she won included reduction in food wastage, composting and giving back to the community. Sachin’s tagline for Mini was Taco Tuesdays to entice the kids to vote for Mini.
However, Mini’s path to win in the elections is laced with hurdles at every corner — lizards, bathroom graffiti of other contestants, funny videos of the school Principal and blondies laced with laxatives. Is Sachin as Mini’s campaign manager at fault for all these mishaps or is someone intentionally sabotaging Mini’s campaign forms the rest of the story.
How to Win an Election is the story of two middle grade pre-teens who are contrasting personalities but best buddies, trying to win a school election. The family backdrops of Sachin and Mini, Sachin’s ADHD, Mini’s struggle to meet everyone’s expectations of her, are very sensibly portrayed by the author.
Sachin’s naughty antics complement Mini’s smartness perfectly, especially when they turn young detectives. Sachin’s habit of using fidget spinner and Mini’s to turn to poetry and rap in the middle of a crisis is interesting. The story also highlights how the opinions of the teachers will shape the kids thought process while growing up and hence it is important for the kids to have the right influences in their lives. The illustrations giving each of the election candidates a peculiar personality will catch the reader’s attention.
With election fever gripping the nation right now, How to Win an Election is the perfect pick for young kids this summer holidays. It is unputdownable till the end and thoroughly entertaining.
May 20, 2024
Get your tips on nomination filing, campaigning, sabotage and finally winning an election in How to Win an Election: An Unreliable Guide by Menaka Raman.
While we are all caught up in the nation wide election fervour it's not to be taken lightly even at Middle School. The story begins when the school authorities announce nominations for the election to school student council posts and Sachin Samuel Ramanathan who is quite notorious ( but has a great heart) is barred from giving in his nomination form, simply because he has quite a few 'Slips', ahem, yes disciplinary to his name and he is also a day late! His best friend Meenakshi Madhavan (Mini) quite contrary to his mischievous nature is very obedient and much liked by her teachers hence is allowed to file her nominations.
.
Sachin looking at the situation does not give up on the issue and becomes Mini’s campaign manager where he begins to come up with some smart tactic such as 'Taco Tuesdays' to win the people’s vote. But the way to their success becomes overshadowed by acts of vandalism, video of the principal being played, or even baking poisoned blondies that question if it was Sachin who created all the problems as evidence points or if there’s a black sheep among those around!
.
The antics are outstanding in portraying the differences between the two friends, more precisely the fact that Sachin is an adventurer with ADHD and Mini is a studious, confident girl. Their magic is evident as they take on young detective roles and take the chaotic assignments with humor and wit.
.
The classmates, teachers, parents add that much wanted support cast with the quirks of their own which are brought to light via the illustrations done by Pia Alizé Hazarika, giving each of the candidates distinctive personalities. The little strifes of the middle school, their aspirations, relationships with their peers and parents come out really well. I think in this season of votes, it's a nice fun book to give to children who will not only know about the basics of voting in school context but also get a picture of the world outside and is expected from a leader and those who vote too!
While we are all caught up in the nation wide election fervour it's not to be taken lightly even at Middle School. The story begins when the school authorities announce nominations for the election to school student council posts and Sachin Samuel Ramanathan who is quite notorious ( but has a great heart) is barred from giving in his nomination form, simply because he has quite a few 'Slips', ahem, yes disciplinary to his name and he is also a day late! His best friend Meenakshi Madhavan (Mini) quite contrary to his mischievous nature is very obedient and much liked by her teachers hence is allowed to file her nominations.
.
Sachin looking at the situation does not give up on the issue and becomes Mini’s campaign manager where he begins to come up with some smart tactic such as 'Taco Tuesdays' to win the people’s vote. But the way to their success becomes overshadowed by acts of vandalism, video of the principal being played, or even baking poisoned blondies that question if it was Sachin who created all the problems as evidence points or if there’s a black sheep among those around!
.
The antics are outstanding in portraying the differences between the two friends, more precisely the fact that Sachin is an adventurer with ADHD and Mini is a studious, confident girl. Their magic is evident as they take on young detective roles and take the chaotic assignments with humor and wit.
.
The classmates, teachers, parents add that much wanted support cast with the quirks of their own which are brought to light via the illustrations done by Pia Alizé Hazarika, giving each of the candidates distinctive personalities. The little strifes of the middle school, their aspirations, relationships with their peers and parents come out really well. I think in this season of votes, it's a nice fun book to give to children who will not only know about the basics of voting in school context but also get a picture of the world outside and is expected from a leader and those who vote too!
April 8, 2024
Are you in the mood for a high-speed read that will remind you Middle School elections all over again? Are you looking for that suspense element which will make your jaw drop? Then, you’re in the right place!
When Sachin(who sadly has a very tainted track record) applies for the school elections but ends up getting rejected(to no one’s surprise), he makes it his goal to become his best friend Mini’s campaign manager, much to her dismay! But when has Middle School ever been a cakewalk? Slandering messages, reptiles, laxative-laced cupcakes, “cringe” videos and whatnot end up appearing in school to frame Mini and Sachin. But who wants them out of the race so bad that they’re ready to go to any extent to achieve it? Read the book to find out!
As someone who’s neurodivergent, books with neurodivergent rep will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart. This book goes on to show how kids with ADHD are misconstrued and tend to get mocked at, sometimes by teachers as well(sigh, that’s the harsh truth.) The discussions surrounding therapy, and dysfunctional families were a highlight as well! Menaka Raman didn’t hesitate with this one!
Is my review of a Middle Grade title even complete without talking about friendships? Mini and Sachin are the best of friends and are the perfect example of how friends must stay together through thick and thin! A very subtle but important aspect of how parents sometimes tend to make mistakes as well(they’re humans too, after all) is portrayed with nuance.
Not only do we get to see Middle School elections in full swing, we also see the not-so-great side as well, and I personally feel this realistic depiction was essential.
Pia Alizé Hazarika’s illustrations sprinkled all over the book only add to the fun reading experience! A Middle Grade book with amazing illustrations is a match made in heaven!
Kudos on the author on incorporating all the new Gen-Z lingo in the book! I had a great time giggling at all the new lingo kids use nowadays and it made me realise how old I am as well, haha!
All you got to do now is pick this book up and go back to Middle School while snuggled up on the couch! Also, you’ll end up craving brownies while you’re reading it, so keep a box of it ready!
When Sachin(who sadly has a very tainted track record) applies for the school elections but ends up getting rejected(to no one’s surprise), he makes it his goal to become his best friend Mini’s campaign manager, much to her dismay! But when has Middle School ever been a cakewalk? Slandering messages, reptiles, laxative-laced cupcakes, “cringe” videos and whatnot end up appearing in school to frame Mini and Sachin. But who wants them out of the race so bad that they’re ready to go to any extent to achieve it? Read the book to find out!
As someone who’s neurodivergent, books with neurodivergent rep will ALWAYS have a special place in my heart. This book goes on to show how kids with ADHD are misconstrued and tend to get mocked at, sometimes by teachers as well(sigh, that’s the harsh truth.) The discussions surrounding therapy, and dysfunctional families were a highlight as well! Menaka Raman didn’t hesitate with this one!
Is my review of a Middle Grade title even complete without talking about friendships? Mini and Sachin are the best of friends and are the perfect example of how friends must stay together through thick and thin! A very subtle but important aspect of how parents sometimes tend to make mistakes as well(they’re humans too, after all) is portrayed with nuance.
Not only do we get to see Middle School elections in full swing, we also see the not-so-great side as well, and I personally feel this realistic depiction was essential.
Pia Alizé Hazarika’s illustrations sprinkled all over the book only add to the fun reading experience! A Middle Grade book with amazing illustrations is a match made in heaven!
Kudos on the author on incorporating all the new Gen-Z lingo in the book! I had a great time giggling at all the new lingo kids use nowadays and it made me realise how old I am as well, haha!
All you got to do now is pick this book up and go back to Middle School while snuggled up on the couch! Also, you’ll end up craving brownies while you’re reading it, so keep a box of it ready!
April 18, 2024
"How to Win an Election" is a rollicking romp through the chaos of student politics, brought to life by the delightful illustrations of Pia Alizé Hazarika.
In this uproarious tale, Menaka spins a yarn of intrigue, friendship, and electoral mayhem that will leave readers in stitches. As the middle school elections loom large, Sachin finds himself disqualified from the race, sparking a whirlwind of mischief and mishaps as he teams up with his best friend Mini to secure victory.
But winning won't be easy, especially with rivals resorting to dastardly tactics like hacked videos, incriminating bathroom graffiti, and even dangerous baked goods! With each hilarious twist and turn, Sachin and Mini must unravel the mystery of their opponents' underhanded schemes before it's too late.
Read the complete review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/review-ho...
In this uproarious tale, Menaka spins a yarn of intrigue, friendship, and electoral mayhem that will leave readers in stitches. As the middle school elections loom large, Sachin finds himself disqualified from the race, sparking a whirlwind of mischief and mishaps as he teams up with his best friend Mini to secure victory.
But winning won't be easy, especially with rivals resorting to dastardly tactics like hacked videos, incriminating bathroom graffiti, and even dangerous baked goods! With each hilarious twist and turn, Sachin and Mini must unravel the mystery of their opponents' underhanded schemes before it's too late.
Read the complete review here: https://www.aliveshadow.com/review-ho...
June 21, 2024
Middle school elections can be hella messy, and that's what How to Win an Election shows so well. The story revolves around Sachin, his best friend Mini, the students who filed nominations for the school election, and a bunch of weird adults (teachers and parents). Every character is memorable, whether it's Vamsi Vanka, Michelle, Sachin's father, or the Sachin-Mini duo. The way the story is written mixes in a lot of hilarity, suspense, and life lessons. The drama at the end with all the "comedy of errors" situations is the true climax of the story.
This book has all the fun stuff a reader looks for, making it great for all ages. Plus, I loved how it subtly brings out issues like ADHD, intelligence-shaming, and the clear differences between right and wrong. Filled with beautiful illustrations that help the readers imagine the characters better, it's a highly recommended piece of school drama, and a guide on how NOT to win an election!
This book has all the fun stuff a reader looks for, making it great for all ages. Plus, I loved how it subtly brings out issues like ADHD, intelligence-shaming, and the clear differences between right and wrong. Filled with beautiful illustrations that help the readers imagine the characters better, it's a highly recommended piece of school drama, and a guide on how NOT to win an election!
April 22, 2024
Sachin gets disqualified from contesting and the elections and he is determined to help his best friend, Mini, win. Would these young middle schoolers be able to jump over the hurdles that come across their path towards victory? Would they be able to survive the malicious plans their opponents orchestrate against them?
📝The illustrations in this book were really unique and there are introductory character arts for each of the characters. The story narration was good and made me more curious about what might happen next. There were so many interesting characters and this was an eventful story.
I think this would be a fun read for all young children and they’ll be able to relate to it and discuss this with their friends
📝The illustrations in this book were really unique and there are introductory character arts for each of the characters. The story narration was good and made me more curious about what might happen next. There were so many interesting characters and this was an eventful story.
I think this would be a fun read for all young children and they’ll be able to relate to it and discuss this with their friends
March 5, 2026
This is such an awesome book. To me, it's offensive that there are only 2 people currently reading and 8 reviews! Why are there ladoos on the cover? It's a long story, one that you must get to the bottom of. Whoever's reading this review, read this hilarious book! RIGHT NOW. I MEAN NOW.
May 19, 2024
This is an eye-opener about elections, and various factors that make the elections a process. Story with who done it?
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