
Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider because of their literal thinking, or when your family is navigating the quiet weight of grief or a parent's illness. This story follows twelve-year-old Candice Phee, a girl who likely occupies a space on the autism spectrum, though it is never explicitly labeled. She is on a mission to fix the broken parts of her world, from her mother's depression following a family tragedy to her father's feud with his brother. It is a deeply funny yet profoundly moving exploration of neurodivergence and emotional resilience. While it tackles heavy themes like infant death and depression, it maintains a quirky, optimistic tone that validates a child's desire to help their loved ones. It is best suited for middle schoolers ready for nuanced discussions about family dynamics and mental health.
Themes of clinical depression, grief over a lost sibling, and cancer treatment.
The book deals directly with the death of an infant (SIDS), clinical depression, and cancer. The approach is secular and realistic, showing the messy reality of grief without sugarcoating it. However, the resolution is hopeful, focusing on reconciliation and the acceptance of 'good enough' happiness.
A neurodivergent middle schooler (specifically those with ASD or ADHD) who feels they see the world differently than their peers and often feels the 'weight' of the adults' problems around them.
Parents should be aware of the frank descriptions of the mother's depression and the brief but poignant mentions of the deceased infant sister. No specific page preview is required, but be ready to discuss why adults sometimes can't 'just be happy.' A parent might notice their child over-functioning or trying to 'cheer up' the adults in the house, or perhaps a child who is struggling with social cues and being teased for their literalness.
Younger readers (10) will enjoy the slapstick humor and Douglas's antics. Older readers (13-14) will better grasp the poignancy of the family estrangement and the complexity of the mother's mental health journey.
Unlike many 'issue' books, Jonsberg uses a highly distinct, humorous voice that prevents the story from feeling medicinal. Candice is a hero of her own story, not a tragedy to be solved.
Candice Phee, an exceptionally literal and honest twelve-year-old, organizes her life alphabetically. Following the death of her baby sister years prior, her family has fractured: her mother is bedridden with depression and breast cancer, and her father is estranged from his brother, Rich Uncle Brian. Candice embarks on a series of quirky, sometimes ill-advised projects to 'fix' everyone, aided by her new friend Douglas Benson From Another Dimension.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Your experience helps other parents find the right book.
Sign in to write a review