The View from the Very Best House in Town

This poignant chapter book introduces Asha, an autistic girl whose world is shaken when her lifelong best friend, Sam, also autistic, gets into a prestigious academy. Left to navigate the social labyrinth of middle school on her own, Asha grapples with feelings of loneliness and a shifting sense of identity. The situation becomes even more complicated when Sam starts spending time with Prestyn, Asha's rival, whose family owns the 'best house in town' and has forbidden Asha from entering. The story sensitively explores themes of friendship, betrayal, self-discovery, and the challenges of social dynamics, particularly from the perspective of a neurodivergent child. It's a powerful read for children aged 8-12, offering insight into the emotional complexities of growing up and standing firm in one's own truth.

"Sam and Asha. Asha and Sam. Their friendship is so long established, they take it for granted. Just as Asha takes for granted that Donnybrooke, the mansion that sits on the highest hill in Coreville, is the best house in town. But when Sam is accepted into snobbish Castleton Academy as an autistic 'Miracle Boy,' he leaves Asha, who is also autistic, to navigate middle school alone. He also leaves her wondering if she can take anything for granted anymore. Because soon Sam is spending time with Prestyn, Asha's nemesis, whose family owns Donnybrooke and, since a housewarming party gone wrong, has forbidden Asha to set foot inside. Who is Asha without Sam? And who will she be when it becomes clear that Prestyn's interest in her friend isn't so friendly?"--Provided by publishe