Naomi Hirahara’s latest book, “1001 Cranes” (Delacorte Press), is a change of pace for the popular mystery writer.

The novel for young readers tells the story of 12-year-old Angela Kato. When Angela arrives in Los Angeles, the last thing she wants to do is spend the entire summer with her grandparents. But in the Kato family, one is never permitted to complain.

Grandma Michi and Aunt Janet put Angela to work in their flower shop, folding origami and creating 1,001-crane displays for newlyweds. At first, Angela learns the trade begrudgingly.

But when her folding skills improve and her relationships with family and friends grow, Angela is able to cope with her troubles, especially her parents’ impending divorce.

Hirahara is the Edgar Award–winning author of the Mas Arai adult mystery series — “Summer of the Big Bachi,” “Gasa-Gasa Girl” and “Snakeskin Shamisen” —and several non-fiction books on Japanese American history. “1001 Cranes” is her first book for young readers. She lives in Pasadena with her husband.

For more information, visit www.naomihirahara.com.