Wishing Star Summer — Beryl Young

Jillian Nelson, 11 years old and newly moved to Vancouver, Canada has struck upon an ingenious solution to find a friend: Tanya, a Belarus girl exposed to Chernobyl radiation will stay with the Nelsons on a summer exchange. But language barriers, poor health and culture shock strain the nascent friendship and Jillian's jealousy and selfishness threaten to alienate Tanya in the very place she is meant to feel safe. Can Jillian put aside her anger and earn the friendship she has wished for? With a glossary of Russian words and maps, this debut novel both inspires and instructs.