The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: June 18, 2018

Review

Recommending for Cream Consideration. Lucy was struck by lightning when she was 8-years-old leaving her with a type of brain damaged called acquired savant syndrome but what she calls "supercomputer brain". Her number skills are beyond college thought and keep Nana and Uncle Paul entertained. On the downside, Lucy has a few obsessive compulsive traits from the accident that has kept her reclusive. Nana has agreed to let her attend college classes on the condition that she attends one full year at East Hamlin Middle School and make one friend. Lucy finds that her life becomes complicated, friend and bully filled and exponentially fulfilling. McAnulty has captured Lucy's voice in a clear and believable way in her world view, in her friend interactions and as she fights to appear "normal". Prepare to laugh out loud one minute and require a tissue the next. Fans of "Wonder" by Palacio and "Out of my Mind" by Draper will have this flying off the shelf.

Overall Book Score: excellent