I read several books in 2019 in which the protagonist is neuro-diverse. I ended up enjoying all of them in different ways, and appreciating the fact that each of the characters felt unique and not some stereotypical idea of what a person with autism looks and acts like.

When I picked up this book, I was happy to see that the protagonist in this book was also neuro-diverse. Unfortunately, as I continued to read this book, I found myself growing more and more uncomfortable with it. The way that the author portrayed Don just felt like he was being made the butt of a joke throughout the entire novel. The fact that no one in his life ever mentions that maybe he could be on the spectrum is a little strange to me. After all, they are very open and blunt with each other on all other manner of topics. But for some reason, that word felt totally taboo when it came to Don. It felt especially strange since his character is a geneticist who spoke to a class full of young people with Asperger's at the beginning of the book. He knows all about it, but he always talks about 'aspies' as though he is completely detached from them. It felt almost gimmicky in the book. Like, "Look at this guy! He's super smart and educated but doesn't realize that he's on the spectrum! How ironic!!" Which is maybe why it felt like he was the punchline to a really crappy joke.

Rosie came across very flat to me. I didn't really care about her or her story. The whole 'He didn't take me to Disneyland!' thing came across as whiny and petty, especially considering the circumstances.

I also didn't feel like the romance was a strong element in this book. Rosie and Don felt more like friends than potential romantic partners. I did warm up to it a little bit while they were in New York, but it felt like the attraction kind of came out of nowhere. That, along with the Wife Project and the Father Project, just made this book a little all over the place. It lacked focus. The ending was rushed, almost as if the author realized he hadn't actually revealed who the father was, although I thought it was obvious for quite some time.

I do think that this could make a cute romantic comedy movie, as long as the actors have decent chemistry.

For those of those looking for books featuring nuero-diversity, I enjoyed the following:

A Boy Made of Blocks by Keith Stuart (this is actually more about the father of a young boy with autism and his journey to connect with him. It is semi-autobiographical as the author went through the same type of journey with his own son. It was very emotional and sometimes difficult to read, but ultimately hopeful.)

The Kiss Quotient by Helen Hoang (steamy adult romance - LOVED this.)

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon (I loved everything about this quiet little story.)

What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum (a YA contemporary romance. I know this one gets mixed reviews from people concerned with the autism rep. I have known people in my life who are very similar to David, so it didn't bother me, but I can see how some may not LOVE this.)