Honestly Elliott

I read Honestly Elliott by Gillian McDunn after seeing it won the middle grade Schneider Family Book Award (which honor books that well represent the disability experience). The book description reads, "Elliott has been struggling since his closest friend moved away, and he's not too sure where he fits into his own family, especially since his newly remarried dad and stepmom are expecting a baby. His grades aren't too great, he's always forgetting things, and he doesn't really like sports. All together, the result is someone the complete opposite of his dad--a fact they're both very aware of. Elliott's only solace is cooking, where he can control the outcome, testing exciting recipes and watching his favorite cooking shows. When he's paired with the super smart and popular Maribel for a school-wide project, Elliott worries they won't see eye to eye. But Maribel is also looking for a new way to show others her true self and this project could be the chance they've both been waiting for. Sometimes the least likely friends help you see a new side to things . . . and sometimes you have to make a few mistakes before you figure out what's right."

I really enjoyed this book. Elliott has ADHD, so the book gave some insight into what it's like to live with that disability. He was a great character, and the author did a great job with giving us a look into so many relationships in his life--his parents, therapist, classmates, friends, etc. I felt like I really got to know the characters. The story was engaging and fun, and I really liked how things came together in the end. This is another book that my daughter read before me on vacation, and she also sped through it--which to me showed it was an excellent read.

Rating: * * (2/3 = Liked it)