Alina in a Pinch
Lunchtime can be lonely when you’re the new kid at school.
Moving to a new city means Alina has to make new friends, and nothing is worse than lunch at a new school. When her grandmother visits, Alina is inspired to help her cook the delicious Afro-Indian meals she’s always loved, but a cruel note from a mysterious lunchtime bully leaves a bitter taste that even Nani’s excellent cooking can’t erase.
With an audition for Junior Chef fast approaching and Nani’s wise lessons helping her, can Alina embrace her heritage and convince her classmates that being different is a good thing?
Praise & Recognition
"Alina’s relationship with Nani is heartfelt, and the protagonist’s growing self-assuredness and perseverance will be a comfort for fellow new kids who see themselves in her struggles."
Publishers Weekly"A smart, timely tale of acceptance, pride, and identity, Alina in a Pinch is a book that has you cheering for its plucky protagonist."
Open Book"This is more than a story about fitting in. Alina realizes that her classmates also have insecurities and differences and comes to accept her background. She looks forward to celebrating it as she tries for a title of Junior Chef."
Winnipeg Free Press"This chapter book will guide readers into diversity and equity and acceptance… and not just because of the food we eat."
Dr. Larry Recommends"I think kids should read this book because it’s very informative about culture and that you should express it if you enjoy it. You should not hide what you like just because other people don’t agree with it."
EMWF Children’s Book ReviewsForest of Reading, Silver Birch Express Award 2023 - Short-listed
The Hackmatack Children’s Choice Book Award 2024 - Short-listed
CBC Books: 15 Canadian Back-To-School Books for Kids and Teens 2024 - Commended
Details
Publication Date: May 3, 2022
Reading Age: 6 - 8
Genre: Children's Fiction, Early Chapter Book
Product Format: Paperback
Pages: 88
ISBN: 978-1-77260-245-6
Weight: 100
Key Topics
About the Author
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About the Illustrator
Beena Mistry
Beena Mistry is an illustrator, art director, and zinester based out of Toronto. They are most interested in working on projects that involve community building and helping to elevate the voices of under-served communities. Beena has worked with clients such as the University of Toronto, Action Canada, and Reader's Digest. They've worked as an illustrator for publishers like Simon & Schuster and Kids Can Press. Their work has also been featured in publications such as CBC Arts, CTV Your Morning, and The ArQuives.