Colin Fischer

Reach for this book when your middle or high schooler feels like an outsider because of how their brain processes the world. It is an essential choice for parents of neurodivergent children who are struggling to navigate the unspoken social rules and hierarchies of school. The story follows Colin Fischer, a freshman with autism who uses a notebook of facial expressions to decode human emotion. When a gun goes off in the cafeteria, Colin uses his unique logical skills to clear the name of the school bully, despite the bully being his primary antagonist. It explores themes of justice, identity, and the courage it takes to be yourself in a world that demands conformity. Parents will appreciate how it humanizes the autistic experience without being clinical, offering a realistic look at sensory sensitivities and social challenges for ages 12 and up.