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“This charming, eye-opening book highlights not only the struggles of an immigrant girl, but the power that comes from seeing things through someone else’s eyes.”

—School Library Journal

“An awkward Pakistani Muslim sixth grader learns to love every part of herself…Her family has moved cities several times since they immigrated to England in 1998, three years ago, and Alina still longs for her beloved family and misses being in a place where she fits in—and where her surname isn’t material her classmate Adam Atkins can use to torment her…In this charming, tightly plotted debut, Alina’s witty, vulnerable narratorial voice guides readers through her intensely authentic personal evolution. An insightful coming-of-age novel.”

—Kirkus Reviews

The Unlovable Alina Butt (Alina Butt #1)

Written by Ambreen Butt-Hussain
Published by Orca Book Publishers

Eleven-year-old Alina Butt has changed schools four times already since her family moved to England from Pakistan. Even after all that practice, she doesn’t seem to be getting any better at being the new kid. Mocked for her last name and her “weird” lunches, Alina has had enough! Taking a leap of faith to try and stand out for the “right” reasons, Alina auditions for the school play. Her hopes of landing the lead role in Cinderella are dashed when her new friend gets the part of Cinderella instead…and her bully is cast as Prince Charming!

Alina must rely on her stubborn will and wacky sense of humor to survive the endlessly embarrassing and ridiculous situations she finds herself in and discover her own unique way to shine!

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Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: May 2023
Available As: Paperback, eBook
Middle Grade, Age 09 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: England

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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