The Unlovable Alina Butt

by Ambreen Butt-Hussain

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Pub Date May 16 2023 | Archive Date Apr 27 2023

Orca Book Publishers

Humor & Satire | Middle Grade | OwnVoices

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Description

Fitting in at a new school is hard enough, but when you’re an awkward, big-nosed, nerdy Pakistani girl with a funny last name, it can seem impossible.

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!

The epub edition of this title is fully accessible.

Fitting in at a new school is hard enough, but when you’re an awkward, big-nosed, nerdy Pakistani girl with a funny last name, it can seem impossible.

Eleven-year-old Alina Butt has changed schools...

A Note From the Publisher

Ambreen Butt-Hussain was born in Pakistan but lived in England and Scotland before finally settling in Canada. She has a bachelor of science from the University of Toronto and a master of education from Queen’s University. She currently teaches elementary school.

Advance Praise

“In this charming, tightly plotted debut, Alina’s witty, vulnerable narratorial voice guides readers through her intensely authentic personal evolution.”—Kirkus

“Finding a new author is like finding a new friend. I’m sure you're going to find Alina—and Ambreen—to be quite lovable!”—Eric Walters, author of the Governor General’s Literary Award–winning The King of Jam Sandwiches

“This debut novel by Butt-Hussain is hilarious and poignant. New immigrants will identify with Alina’s problems of fitting in, as well as the funny situations she and her brother, Fadi, have to deal with as they settle into life in England. Alina’s journey, from being a scared girl lacking confidence to owning her heritage and being kind to everyone no matter what, is inspiring and heartwarming. The Unlovable Alina Butt is a great addition to any library, at school or at home, and is sure to encourage lots of insightful discussions about fitting in, diversity, friendship and being kind to all. Alina Butt is anything but(t) unlovable!”—Mahtab Narsimhan, award-winning author of The Tiffin

“A heartwarming story of a misfit with no confidence who rises above it all, earns the admiration and respect of her peers—through her courage and kindness—and even wins over the bully. Filled with empathy, heart and humor, this book made me laugh and cry at moments. A compelling read that had me hooked to the end. Alina Butt is a very lovable and memorable character. She stays with you long after you finish the last page and close the book.”—Shirin Shamsi, author of The Moon from Dehradun: A Story of Partition

“In this charming, tightly plotted debut, Alina’s witty, vulnerable narratorial voice guides readers through her intensely authentic personal evolution.”—Kirkus

“Finding a new author is like finding...