About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their bright, logic-driven child struggles to understand the unwritten rules of friendship and feels like an outsider. Seventh-grader Talia is a whiz at math and coding, but when she starts a new school, she finds human behavior illogical. To cope, she creates a 'codebook' to decipher social cues and navigate middle school. This clever and heartfelt story follows Talia as she joins the Mathletes, makes an unexpected friend, and uses her unique problem-solving skills to uncover a cheating scandal. It beautifully illustrates themes of self-confidence, belonging, and the idea that our differences are our greatest strengths. For ages 8-12, it’s an affirming read for any child who feels like their brain is wired a little differently.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book's central theme is the protagonist’s social challenges, which present as characteristics of neurodiversity (specifically, reminiscent of the autism spectrum). The character is not explicitly labeled, allowing for broad identification. The approach is secular and focuses on Talia's internal experience. The resolution is both hopeful and realistic: she finds belonging by being herself and connecting with peers who appreciate her, not by magically changing to fit a neurotypical mold.
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