Distant Cousin

Kristin Butcher writes novels for young adults. Her most recent works
are The Trouble with Liberty, Zee’s Way, and Chat Room.

When Kasha, 15, a cousin from England, arrives at the Randall’s summer
cottage for a five-day visit, it becomes the responsibility of Mel, 14,
to entertain her. Since the two girls are of an age and Mel has numerous
friends and interests, that shouldn’t be too onerous a task—but it
is. Kasha’s parents are in the midst of a divorce, and the situation
is taking its toll on the quiet teenager. Though always polite, she
avoids Mel’s friends and the activities Mel plans, retreating instead
to the safety and solitude of her books.

After three days of this quiet opposition, Mel finally loses her
patience and tells her father that Kasha is no fun at all; in fact, she
is a dud. Unfortunately, Kasha overhears and when Mel later goes looking
for her, she is nowhere to be found. After searching the entire lake
community, Mel finally discovers Kasha sitting in a tree fort, crying.
Mel apologizes and Kasha reveals the reason for her reluctance to join
in. And suddenly Mel knows how to turn the situation around.

Distant Cousin follows the lives of likeable Mel Randall, her sisters,
her father, and her friends at their summer home. Intended for readers
in Grades 4–6, the novel can also be enjoyed by older reluctant
readers. Recommended.