SPOTTED

In this novel in verse, an introspective high schooler discovers new self-confidence.

Ruthie keeps to herself, unlike her vibrant sister, Meron. Her mother, a nurse, struggles with compulsive hoarding; their house is full of “piles” and “NEW THINGS,” which prevents Ruthie from inviting anyone over, though she does sneak things out of the house and leave anonymous gifts for people. Compassionate attention from her new crush, Trey, gradually brings Ruthie out of her shell. She makes friends with his social circle and begins to stand up for herself. All the while, she’s processing a diagnosis of vitiligo, which is worsened by the stress she’s under. Diefendorf’s spare poetry traces Ruthie’s development from a lonely girl struggling in isolation to someone able to recognize and articulate her feelings. Trey praises her for being “kind / and generous and fun” and someone who “really sees people.” As trust grows between them, he reveals that he struggles with reading and offers accepting words about Ruthie’s mother’s mental illness. The treatment of Ruthie’s vitiligo is refreshingly casual, with not too much angst surrounding her living with it. Ruthie shares affecting connections with Trey and Meron, and readers will applaud her journey to deciding to come out of hiding and live unapologetically. Ruthie has tan skin and wavy brown hair, and Trey has “deep / chocolate eyes” and light brown skin. Names cue ethnic diversity in the supporting cast.

A quiet story of personal growth for reluctant readers.