DR. EMI PINTO
is the author of Chai Jinxed, and Jean Little First Novel Award Finalist Bee Bakshi and the Gingerbread Sisters. She lives in Ottawa, Ontario, with her family and two furry familiars. When she’s not weaving stories, you can find her puttering around her mushroom garden, wandering the haunted woods behind her home, and enjoying a cup of (magic) tea.
News and Updates: Praise for Emi’s new tea-filled adventure
"Quickly paced with a variety of explosively enchanting adventures, middle-grade readers who enjoy academic outcasts will be spellbound by the mystical properties of tea brewing. In the end, all mysteries are revealed, friends are found, and Misha realizes her own value. A sweetly satisfying romp, even for those readers who don’t drink tea." — Booklist
"Pinto works delightful wordplay and original fantasy elements into her work that’s set in a South Asian–inspired world. Readers will enjoy Misha’s messes and appreciate her imperfections . . . Capers and calamities reign supreme in this fantasy. . . ." — Kirkus Reviews
"Chai Jinxed is a delicious, shenanigan-filled adventure mixed with a sprinkle of scary, a dash of 'I can fix this!,' and topped with a funny frog that'll have you croaking out loud. Perfect for anyone who's struggled to get it right and who needs to know it'll all work out just the way it should. From now on I feel I should always carry snacks in my bag for froggish friends!" — Malia Maunakea, author of the Lei and the Legends series
"Brimming with magic, mischief, and mysterious doings, Chai Jinxed is a marvelous adventure that’s sure to steal your heart." — Alysa Wishingrad, author of Between Monsters and Marvels
“A hilarious story full of magical hijinks, perseverance, and heart.” — Joanna Cacao, author of The Secret of the Ravens
"Emi Pinto has brewed a delightful coming-of-age story full of tea magic, whimsy, and heart. Chai Jinxed features a strong cast of characters, and Misha is a charming heroine you'll want to root for. Perfectly paired with a cup of enchanted chai!" — Sarena and Sasha Nanua, coauthors of Sisters of the Snake and Spirit Service
"Early on in Misha’s adventure, there’s a warning about comparing yourself to others, and yet it isn’t possible to compare Chai Jinxed with other books for it is utterly unique. Pinto’s story is the 'anteadote' for anyone looking for a book that breathes fresh life into the fantasy world. This witchy tale packs humor, heart, and a whole lot of magical tea that is sure to warm the heart of any reader." — George Jreije, author of Shad Hadid
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Praise for Bee Bakshi and the Gingerbread Sisters
Finalist for the Canadian Children’s Book Center Jean Little First Novel Award
'Full of twists, genuine scares, and satisfying reveals… Gingerbread is plentiful in this spooky “Hansel and Gretel” retelling, but the lessons about friendship are sweeter still.’ — KIRKUS REVIEW
‘A fun adventure with a loveable cast of characters that reminds you the only way to fit in is to just be yourself. That is the true gingerbread magic.' — Ally Malinenko, author of GHOST GIRL and THIS APPEARING HOUSE
‘From heart-pounding fear to laugh out loud humor… This book will scare and certainly excite you, but the important lesson readers take away is just as sweet as the cookie in the title suggests.’ — George Jreije, author of the SHAD HADID children’s fantasy series
‘Debut author Pinto’s homage to “Hansel and Gretel” is cleverly updated with mischievous loons, peach pickles, and ghost-seeing goggles.’ — School Library Journal
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