Count Me In

Count Me In is a middle grade work of fiction. The novel explores complex themes concerning identity, self-discovery, and friendship in an understandable and approachable manner. Using the lens of the immigrant story, Bajaj relies on a common trope in middle grade fiction: Using an instance of adversity to catalyze her main characters’ self-discovery journey. The plot, themes, and style of Bajaj’s novel are reminiscent of other recent young adult (YA) and middle grade works, including Barakah Beats (2021) by Maleeha Siddiqui, On the Come Up (2019) and The Hate U Give (2017) by Angie Thomas, Bitter (2022) by Akwaeke Emezi, (Me) Moth (2021) by Amber McBride, and Stuntboy, in the Meantime (2021) by Jason Reynolds. Each of these novels challenges its main characters to consider coming-of-age questions, such as where they come from, how they define themselves, and how they might overcome prejudice.

Count Me In was named a 2020 finalist for Global Read Aloud and was chosen as a 2020-2021 Virginia Middle Grade Reading List selection. Judges praised Bajaj’s work for helping young readers claim their personal identities and own their place in American history and culture by making complex coming-of-age dilemmas accessible to young readers. For example, in Count Me In, Karina doesn’t just want to prove that she is American. The US is her country and home, but she does not change or erase her Indian roots to find acceptance. Bajaj uses Karina’s story to communicate the importance of balancing one’s cultural background while claiming one’s belonging in the US—and in the process accepting herself, becoming resilient, and embracing love over hatred.