Description
The unexpected responsibility of caring for her autistic brother during her summer in Paris turns out to be just the adventure that Clara needed.
Growing up in the shadow of a famous mother, Clara has never felt good about her body. Now, at sixteen, she has an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. After a social media disaster, she decides to escape for the summer to Paris to stay with her estranged dad and her six-year-old brother, Alastair, who is on the autism spectrum. Charged with his care, Clara and Alastair set out to explore the city. Paris, and a handsome young French baker, teaches Clara about first love, and a new love of food. And Alastair teachers Clara about patience, trust, and the beauty of loving without judgment.
Contributor Notes
Jennifer Gold is a lawyer and mother of two and the author of the YA novels Soldier Doll and Undiscovered Country. A history buff, she also has degrees in psychology, law, and public health. She lives with her family in Toronto.
Recommended Age, Grade, and Reading Levels
- Age:
- 13 to 18
- Grade:
- 8 to 12
- Reading age:
- 13 to 18
Awards
- Commended, Outstanding Books for Young People with Disabilities
- Commended, Canadian Children's Book Centre's Best Books, Kids and Teens
Editorial Review
“A light examination of the intersection of two disabilities with family dynamics, with a sweet splash of page-turning melodrama.” — Kirkus Reviews
“A brisk pace and pervasive sense of hope and optimism propel Gold’s dreamy novel. The contrast between Clara’s sharp wit and Alastair’s matter-of-factness adds levity to a well-told and timely tale about love, patience, and acceptance.” — Publishers Weekly
“A light but poignant read.... Gold handles the topics of being on the autism spectrum and orthorexia nervosa competently and sensitively.” — School Library Journal
“Gold does a beautiful job of rendering the conversations between Clara and Alastair, and both characters are never so clearly defined and captivating as when they are with each other… Highly recommended.” — CM: Canadian Review of Materials
“Jennifer Gold’s strong characterization brings to life these vibrant characters — from the depiction of women battling eating disorders to the struggles of a child who is deemed to be different from his peers...The Parisian setting is an excellent backdrop to the well-paced plot, making On the Spectrum difficult to put down.” — Canadian Children's Book News
