
Reach for this book when your teenager is grappling with the vulnerability of a first crush or the fear that their physical differences might make them unlovable. It is a vital resource for parents of children with disabilities who want to move beyond stories of suffering and instead celebrate a protagonist who is allowed to be joyful, romantic, and ambitious. The story follows Andrea Labonair, a Black girl with cerebral palsy, as she navigates a summer 'Best Friend List' and the terrifying prospect of confessing her feelings to her best friend, Hailee. This is a deeply optimistic contemporary romance that centers on the concept of 'disabled joy.' It addresses themes of self-confidence, intersectional identity, and the importance of supportive community. Parents will appreciate the way it models healthy communication and emotional courage for the 12 to 17 age group, providing a mirror for disabled teens and a window for others into the lived experience of navigating the world with a physical disability while dealing with universal adolescent milestones.
Brief moments of feeling excluded or different due to physical limitations.
None.
A 14-year-old girl who feels overlooked or like she's always on the sidelines. This is for the reader who wants to see a story where the main character embraces her worthiness of love and happiness.
This book can be read cold. It is a celebratory, low-angst contemporary romance that focuses on positive identity formation and healthy relationships. A parent hears their child say, 'Nobody is ever going to want to date me because of my wheelchair/braces/condition.' This book acts as a direct rebuttal to that heartache.
Younger teens (12 to 14) will focus on the excitement of the 'summer list' and the relatable nerves of a first crush. Older teens (15 to 17) will likely connect with the book's exploration of identity, self-acceptance, and navigating a world that doesn't always see you.
Unlike many stories featuring disabled protagonists, this book focuses on joy and romance. It prioritizes Andrea's agency and her right to a happy ending, centering her experiences and desires. """
Andrea Labonair is a Black teenager with cerebral palsy who is determined to have the best summer ever before her senior year. She creates a 'Best Summer Ever' list to challenge herself and push past her comfort zones. While ticking off items, she must navigate her deep feelings for her best friend, Hailee, and the fear that her disability makes her unworthy of the kind of romance she sees in movies.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
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