Things That Are

Alicia, who lost her sight two years prior, is the central protagonist in this sequel to Things Not Seen. When her boyfriend Bobby returns to Chicago, he is unknowingly shadowed by William, a man who has become invisible through a scientific mishap involving an electric blanket. As the FBI pursues William, Alicia must navigate her own internal 'brain fairy' (a personification of her self-doubt) while protecting her family and helping William regain his visibility. SENSITIVE TOPICS: The depiction of blindness is direct and secular, focusing on the sensory experience and social adjustments of a teenager. The resolution is hopeful and empowering, emphasizing Alicia's agency rather than her limitations. EMOTIONAL ARC: The story begins with a sense of cautious adjustment and tension, building through the mystery of William's presence into a high-stakes climax. It ends on a note of profound self-assurance. IDEAL READER: A middle school student who enjoys 'what if' science fiction but craves stories with strong emotional stakes, particularly one who may be dealing with their own physical or social differences. PARENT TRIGGER: Parents may witness their child expressing frustration with being underestimated or seen only for their disabilities. PARENT PREP: The 'brain fairy' concept can be a bit jarring; parents might want to discuss how Alicia's internal monologue represents her self-critique. AGE EXPERIENCE: Younger readers will focus on the thrill of invisibility and the sci-fi elements, while older readers will better appreciate Alicia's complex inner dialogue and the nuances of her romantic relationship with Bobby. DIFFERENTIATOR: Unlike many books about disability that focus purely on the struggle, this integrates the disability into a fast-paced thriller where the protagonist's unique perspective is her greatest asset.