On a freezing cold winter night, nine-year-old Konisola and her mother step off a plane in Canada. Their home in Nigeria is no longer safe for them, and they are taking the biggest chance of their lives to travel across the world in search of refuge. Soon after they land, disaster strikes, Konisola’s mother falls ill and they become separated. Konisola is forced to fend for herself in a strange country, with no family and no friends. Then she meets a remarkable nurse and things begin to change for the better. But Konisola's future remains uncertain. Will this new life she has found be taken from her? Inspired by a true story.

Alisa Siegel makes radio documentaries for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation. Her work has been recognized with many international awards. Over the past 20 years, Alisa has produced stories on subjects as varied as the underground railroad for refugees in Fort Erie, daring women artists in 1920s Montreal, the return of the trumpeter swan, Canadian nurses in World War I, and violence in elementary school classrooms. She lives in Toronto with her family.

Alisa Siegel's profile page

• Short-listed, Saskatchewan Young Readers Choice Diamond Willow Award
• Short-listed, CCBC's Jean Little First-Novel Award
• Long-listed, OLA Best Bets
• Short-listed, Red Cedar Book Awards

Children's Books Heal

"Based on a true story, ihelvetica neue",="" helvetica,="" arial,="" sans-serif;="" 14px;="" justify;"="">My Name is Konisola is a beautiful and emotional example of what it should look like for those who come to Canada seeking a safe place to live their lives. Spoiler alert: have tissues handy!"

Allison Giggey