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“A refreshing, reassuring, and honest story about family and friendship that stands out.”

—School Library Journal, Starred Review

“A quiet story that captures all those small cherished moments in childhood. A rare find about family featuring a mixed-raced protagonist.”

—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

When the Cousins Came

Written by Katie Yamasaki
Illustrated by Katie Yamasaki
Published by Holiday House

A multicultural family story that celebrates kindness and differences

Lila is excited for her cousins Takeo and Rosie to visit. They’re going to ride bikes, paint, and camp together! But when the cousins arrive, everything’s wrong: Rosie and Takeo are better painters than Lila, have skateboards instead of bikes, and don’t want to camp outside.

Lila is terribly disappointed until the cousins make her a surprise: a big banner for their “best cousin” Lila!

Inspired by the author’s own large, diverse family, When the Cousins Came is a sensitive story about insecurity, hosting, and friendship. Katie Yamasaki’s tale, paired with bright mixed-media art, reminds children that negative thoughts and anxiety over exclusion don’t always translate to reality, and that even when plans go wrong you can still have a good time together.

Primary ISBN: 9780823434572
Publication Date: July 2018
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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

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