ALL ABOUT BRAINS

Children expound on how their brains make them special.

On “share day” at school, Nova nervously reveals that she has epilepsy. Seizures, which Nova calls “brain sparkles,” make her stutter and shake, and “it feels like you can’t see and can’t talk.” Teacher Robin explains that all brains are different, but some are “especially unique.” She adds, “That uniqueness is called neurodivergence, which absolutely can cause challenges but also creates cool strengths.” Nova’s classmates share their own experiences. Isaac, who’s autistic, tends to focus heavily on interests such as flowers; Phoenix’s ADHD makes it hard for her to sit still, but running helps calm her “swirling” thoughts—and her speed is impressive. Teacher Robin—whose obsessive-compulsive disorder keeps the classroom tidy—names various neurodivergent celebrities, including gymnast Simone Biles and soccer player David Beckham. Cheered, Nova realizes brains are “all…magic. We love our brains, and we want to make sure they’re happy.” While some dialogue feels stilted, Nova’s classmates’ banter adds humor, and the positive tone will inspire many neurodivergent readers to find their own “superpowers.” Katstaller’s big-eyed cartoon illustrations vividly express the distinctive personalities of Nova and her classmates. Nova and her family are light-skinned, Teacher Robin presents Black, and the class is diverse. In an author’s note, Bell mentions that her protagonist is based on her own daughter, who was also diagnosed with epilepsy.

Encouraging.