When My Cousins Come to Town - by Angela Shanté

About the Book

Book Synopsis

A fun, lively story of Black family and cousin culture that celebrates individuality and embraces differences.

One of the New York Public Library's Best Books for Kids in 2021!

Nominated, Bank Street College of Education's 2022 Irma S. Black Award

"This endearing picture book from Shantéeacute; (The Noisy Classroom, 2020) is a beautiful ode to Black families and the bond cousins have. . . Shanté's love letter to Black families and the typical relationship Black children have with their cousins is smartly complemented by Morris' bold, vivid illustrations of the cousins' summer antics, often from the main character's perspective. This story about wanting to feel included will be a storytime must!"
-Booklist

"An adorable book about being true to yourself and the joys of family, especially cousins."
--Kirkus Reviews

"Layered, collage-style art by Morris features rounded panels and centers warm relationships. Shanté aptly portrays the experiences of a young city denizen, peppering the family-centered tale with resonant cultural details."
--Publishers Weekly

Fitting in can be hard, but standing out isn't easy either!

Every summer a young girl eagerly waits for her cousins to come visit and celebrate her birthday. All her cousins are unique in their own ways and have earned cool nicknames for themselves... except for the girl. But this year things are going to be different. This year before summer ends, she's determined to earn her own nickname!

Filled with warmth, love, and laughter, When My Cousins Come to Town brings all the energy and love of a big family to prove that you don't need to be anyone else to be special--just the way you are is exactly right!

Review Quotes

"A good story to share when discussing different family units, this will keep children guessing at story hours. A rite-of-passage story that honors and amplifies the importance of extended families."
-School Library Journal

"Comical, poignant and richly illustrated, When My Cousins Come to Town honors the importance of identity and the value found in family traditions."
--BookPage

"A wonderfully uplifting title and cover which invites readers in, When My Cousins Come to Town is packed with fun, a pleasure to read, and will be enjoyed by little ones all over the world! Bravo to Angela Shantéeacute; for the story, and Keisha Morris's illustrations are both a work of art and wonderful for providing imagination for children."
--Nataka Books