How to Say Love You Out Loud

Reviewed by: Jan Hamilton - Long Creek Center, South Portland, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: August 4, 2015

Review

As a new student in a challenging high school Jordyn has the opportunity to start fresh and tells a lie of omission. Her decision to not share the existence of her autistic younger brother Phillip removes stress from her school experience. Several characters become intrinsic to the story but it is the relationship between the siblings that is central. The budding romance with Alex is secondary.

This is a coming of age tale for Jordyn and a family saga that reveals some of the social issues involved in school interactions and expectations. Only when Jordyn becomes her brother’s speaker does she grow stronger as an individual. Lessons can be learned about relationships, abilities, and self confidence by reading this little novel. Pair with Cynthia Lord’s Rules for a look at autism in family life.

Overall Book Score: good