Anything but Typical by Nora Baskin

Baskin, N. (2009). Anything but Typical. Simon and Schuster Publishing: New York.

Plot

  Anything but Typical is written from the point of view of Jason who loves creative writing, literary devices, online forums, and is autistic. Although Jason has found comfort in sharing his writings on an online forum called Storyboard, he is at a loss when it comes to real relationships both in school and at home. His world is turned upside down when his parents want to send him to meet fellow writers at a Storyboard conference and he begins to share his understanding and fear of what society deems as normal and his hope to stay connected despite his handicap.

Review

  Anything but Typical is a well written story full of an extraordinary cast of characters. The main character Jason puts it perfectly when he says "stuff just happens" to explain the ups and downs of life. Despite the fact that Jason is autistic he is still able to write his deep emotions and thoughts in his online forum, something that many "ordinary" people don't have the guts to do. I liked that the author was able to bring to life Jason's family members and explain to readers how autism affects every relationship. This book brings autism to the fore front of typical tweens and first love, true friendships and every day drama.

Genre

Contemporary Realistic Fiction

Reading Level/Interest Level

Tween/ 4-7th grade/ 9-12 years

Similar Books

The Silent Boy by Lois Lowry

Rules by Cynthia Lord

Mockingbird by Kathyrn Erskine

Awards

 Starred review Kirkus
• Starred review Booklist
• Junior Library Guild Selection 2009
• Indie Booksellers for the Summer 2009 Kids' List