• Age: 6 to 8
• Grade: 1 to 3
• Reading age: 6 to 8

Alina has always dreamed of having a sibling, an instant BFF, and with her cousin Safi arriving from Kenya for the summer, her dream can finally come true!

Alina creates a list of things to do with Safi, but nothing goes as planned when she finds it hard to connect with her cousin. Safi is not who Alina expected her to be. She wears her culture proudly and acts in ways that make her stand out—and Alina hates standing out!

What will happen to the summer Alina had planned? And will she and Safi ever become BFFs?

The sequel to the award-nominated Alina in a Pinch!

Shenaaz Nanji is an internationally published author of over a dozen books for children. She holds an MFA in Writing from Vermont College. Her novel, Child of Dandelions, was a finalist for the Governor General award in Children's Literature. Her chapter book, Alina in a Pinch, was a finalist for the Silver Birch Express award. Born in Kenya, she now lives in Calgary.

Shenaaz G. Nanji's profile page

"Young chapter-book readers will relate to Alina’s many feelings and be invested in her summer exploits. Occasional grayscale drawings illustrate the brief chapters of this sweet family tale, perfect for fans of Juana and Lucas and Too Small Tola."

Booklist

"Alina and Safi’s relationship rings true, while Alina’s fears of standing out and her efforts to balance her Indian and Canadian heritage feel relatable, given her past experiences with bullying...Expectations are upended and bonds are strengthened in this poignant family tale."

Kirkus Reviews