Count Me In is a middle grade fiction book written by Varsa Bajaj.
The protagonists in this book are 12 year old Karina and Chris who live in Houston, Texas. They’re neighbors but they don’t know each other well until Karina’s grandfather gets attacked and things start spiraling out of control. What follows is that Chris, Karina, and their friends find the true meaning of belonging in America today.
This realistic fiction book is very relevant in today’s world, as kids like me figure out where we belong in present day America. I found this book very moving and emotional. I live in a community that is welcoming and accepting and I am shocked at how people can act. I knew hate crimes existed, but I never gave it much thought until I read this book. I was shocked at how Karina’s grandfather was treated and how cruel people can be.
If you enjoy diverse reads and middle grade fiction then you’ll definitely enjoy this book.