When the Cousins Came

By Katie Yamasaki

Lila's plans with her cousins go awry, but a surprise awaits that changes everything.

3.7/5 Goodreads · 305 ratings

32 pages

$17.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

Lila eagerly awaits her cousins, Takeo and Rosie, for a fun-filled visit. But when they arrive, nothing goes as planned. They're better painters, prefer skateboards to bikes, and dislike camping. Disappointment looms until a heartfelt surprise—a banner celebrating Lila as the 'best cousin'—turns the visit around. This touching story explores themes of insecurity and friendship, showing that even when plans falter, joy and connection can still be found.

From the publisher

A Kirkus Reviews Best Book of the Year! 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.

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