This graphic novel tells the story of Frankie, an 11 year old girl who is nearing the end of primary school and wondering why she finds it so difficult to fit in. Is she an alien? Why does she struggle when there's lots of noise? Why doesn't everyone find it totally gross when different foods touch each other? In this novel, she introduces us to her world: school, her mum, her stepdad, her sister, her grandparents, her likes (waffles, rock music) and her dislikes (pop music, school).
We follow Frankie as she navigates a world of school bullies, hospital appointments, and trying to find out who she really is.
As a parent of an autistic child and a person who thinks they are autistic themselves, this graphic novel really touched me. I can see echoes of Frankie in my own family life (the foods must never mix!) I particularly like the graphic representations of overwhelm as this brings to life the very real feeling of confusion and bewilderment. Alongside that, I like the fact that she enjoys zoning out sometimes and giving her brain a holiday; I think we should all do this every now and then! And I really like the explanation of autism that Dooley gives at the end of the novel. This is one of the best explanations I have ever read.
This book is going straight into my school library and it has already gone straight into my heart. Five stars!
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