nxclx's review
adventurous
informative
inspiring
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
As someone that is fully abled, I want to preface this review by saying just that: this is an outsiders review and should be taken as such. Please see other reviews for a more first hand perspective. I have looked over other reviews before writing this one, as well.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. For the main plots, I liked it a lot, save for the ending with theadoption reveal. I personally could have done without that. I found the mystery aspect to be fun and just as silly as middle graders would make it be. I personally liked how the disabilities of the two characters were addressed and progressed throughout the book, and how all three were considered outcasts and banded together before branching out to others at the end. I can see how certain parts could be handled better ("be a man" and other gender enforcing wording for example) , but it didn't ruin the book for me. I think this would be a great book to show middle graders and to have a discussion about after the fact. It seems like a great starting point to introduce heavier topics and open up discussions.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. For the main plots, I liked it a lot, save for the ending with the
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Spoiler
Content Warnings
Moderate: Ableism, Body shaming, Bullying, Death of parent, and Fatphobia
Minor: Murder and Stalking
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