A moving, thoughtful account of autism…
Inspired by eleven-year-old Libby Scott’s (coauthor) own experiences with autism, Westcott tells the story of a smart, compassionate young girl who is struggling to find her own place in the world. Being autistic never bothered Tally until she started grade six at Kingswood Academy. There were always people who were uncomfortable around Tally but not Layla, her best friend. Now with a changed best friend and tiring new circumstances, Tally is at her wit’s end until her sister and teacher step in and offer support. The narrative shifts between the first-person diary entries and third-person omniscient, portraying Tally’s struggles with autism poignantly and authentically. Tally is thoroughly charming, and readers will find themselves admiring her for her courage and sympathetic persona while empathizing with her struggles. Poignant and heartwarming, the book will appeal to every middle-grade reader. A must read!
I’m always excited about upcoming books with characters who are on the autism spectrum, especially if they are the protagonist and not a side character. Amazon.com categorizes this book with ‘Christian’ fiction, and even though I don’t have a problem with religious people I’m an atheist and that’s not something I really want to read about personally. Does this book have a strong religious vibe from what you could tell? Otherwise I’d love to read it! 🙂