School Library Journal

Gr 5-7-"He doesn't answer. He never does. Not with words." This description aptly introduces readers to the life and personality of Nathan "Frenchie" Livernois, who does not speak and is autistic. Aurora (the narrator) is one person who truly understands Frenchie and his emotions. Aurora also navigates her own anxiety, from her strong dislike of itchy shirt tags to her constant struggle not to blurt out her first impression of someone or something. Together, Aurora and Frenchie enjoy riding the bus, looking at birds, and running 100-yard dash races at recess. When the two learn they will be in different classes for sixth grade, Aurora is nervous for Frenchie. Within the first few days of school, Aurora makes two new friends, which changes everything. One day, Aurora misses the school bus pick-up in the morning and Frenchie disappears. With masterful skill, Connor shifts this part of the story from Aurora's narration to incorporate a variety of townspeople who have been impacted by Frenchie. Together, they form a search party to find him. This plot transition makes the book truly unique and shows how one person can make such a difference to strangers, near and far, without saying a single word. VERDICT Exploring the challenges of preteen life, neurodiversity, and the daily impacts people have on each other, this book will keep readers hooked until the end. Connor uses Frenchie's and Aurora's neurodivergent characteristics to build both suspense and compassion in a highly engaging and recommendable read.-Tracey Hodges