Friday, September 18, 2009

Marcelo in the Real World by Francisco X. Stork

“The closest description of what I have is probably Asperger’s syndrome. It falls on the high-functioning end of the autism spectrum.” It is as good an answer as I can give (p 186).

Though many have commented on the slow-paced beginning, I was immediately hooked. Marcelo’s thought process is fascinating, as are people’s reactions to him. I am evious of many of his perceived faults: he thinks carefully before speaking, is guided by a clear sense of right and wrong, has an affinity for animals.

There is an element of mystery in the style of “Erin Brockovich.”

There is romance but nothing like the sappy, love-struck or overwhelming romance saturating contemporary YA literature.

The supporting characters ellicit many emotional reactions from readers: anger, frustration, disgust, compassion.

It is a well structured, intricate story that I hope is a front runner for the Printz!

Read more at: TeenReads, Crazy Quilts,

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