This is the story of two brothers, Frank and Max. Frank is ten, loves football and cottage pie. Max is six, will only eat quavers and can only wear one t-shirt (or he melts down down down). Through the eyes of a loveable ten-year old trying to find his space in the world and within his unconventional family unit, Katya Balen tells a story of autism, family, loss, love and what it means to be a sibling.

This is a beautiful, utterly devastating book that, despite being aimed at a middle-grade audience, absolutely pulled me in and did all sorts of very painful things to my heart. So many books written from the perspective of a child can feel clumsy, like an awkward reproduction of half-remembered experiences but Frank‘s voice is utterly believable and completely authentic. There is raw, unfiltered honesty here delivered with a sensitivity that reflects the author’s work with neurodivergent children and their families. I laughed, cried, celebrated and cried some more.

A huge recommendation from me, particularly for fans of R.J. Palacio’s ‘Wonder’. Suitable for adults and children alike. This one came out on the 5th September and I can’t wait to see the final copy and the beautiful illustrations!

Huge thank you to Netgalley and Bloomsbury for my e-copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.