About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their child feels like an outsider because they see the world differently, or to foster empathy for neurodivergent perspectives. Twelve-year-old Candice Phee is on a mission to fix the sadness in her family. Her dad is depressed, her mom is grieving a hidden loss, and her uncle won't speak to them. With a literal mind and a heart of gold, Candice uses her alphabetical school project to document her life and execute her plan for happiness. This funny and deeply moving story tackles themes of grief, depression, and family love through the eyes of an unforgettable, optimistic, and likely autistic narrator. It's a perfect conversation starter for middle-grade readers about empathy and the different ways people think and feel.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly and frankly with parental depression, grief over the death of a child (SIDS), and bullying. The approach is secular. These heavy topics are filtered through Candice's unique, literal, and optimistic narration, which makes them accessible and less overwhelming for young readers. The resolution is hopeful but realistic: not every problem is perfectly solved, but understanding, communication, and healing begin in earnest.
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