54 pages • 1 hour read
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193
Novel • Fiction
Scotland • Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
9-12 years
A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll follows a young person named Addie, who is autistic, as she campaigns for a memorial in her town to honor women accused of witchcraft. The story highlights Addie's advocacy and courage as she navigates school challenges and seeks to educate others about historical injustices and acceptance.
Inspirational
Emotional
Heartwarming
Challenging
A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll is praised for its authentic representation of neurodiversity, providing a heartfelt and insightful perspective on autism. Readers appreciate the well-developed protagonist and her journey of self-advocacy. Some criticize the pacing but overall, the novel is lauded for its impactful storytelling and educational value.
Readers who enjoyed Wonder by R.J. Palacio or Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt will likely appreciate A Kind of Spark by Elle McNicoll. They typically enjoy stories with strong, neurodivergent characters overcoming societal challenges, themes of friendship, and personal growth. Ideal for middle-grade readers seeking empathy-driven narratives.
Keedie Darrow
Addie's older sister and Nina's twin, who also has autism and is attending university; she supports Addie and helps her embrace her identity while managing her own struggles with masking her autism in academic settings.
Nina Darrow
Addie's neurotypical older sister and Keedie's twin, who works as a social media influencer; she initially struggles with understanding between her and her sisters but later seeks to repair these relationships.
Audrey
A new student in Juniper who befriends Addie and takes an interest in her passions, defending her against bullies and accommodating her needs while learning more about autism.
193
Novel • Fiction
Scotland • Contemporary
2020
Middle grade
9-12 years
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