This book succeeds because of its raw honesty regarding the resentment and social anxiety felt by siblings of children with special needs. Molly provides a voice for the invisible child who struggles with public embarrassment while craving parental attention. Books in this family share a focus on complicated domestic dynamics, high middle school stakes, and characters who express unconventional or difficult emotions.
A parent would reach for this book when their child expresses frustration, embarrassment, or resentment regarding a sibling with special needs. It speaks directly to the 'well sibling' who may feel their own life is overshadowed by the demands and behaviors of a brother or sister who is different. The story follows ten-year-old Molly as she navigates the complex reality of loving her brother Jamie, who has Down syndrome, while simultaneously wishing he were normal so she could have a typical social life and her parents' undivided attention. Pershall handles these heavy emotions with grace, making it an excellent choice for children aged 8 to 12. Parents might choose this book to validate their child's secret feelings of guilt or jealousy, providing a safe space to discuss the reality that one can love their family deeply while still finding their circumstances difficult or unfair.
