NonVerbal By Molly Zenk-Review By Victoria McQuigg

Non-Verbal by Molly Zenk gives an insightful and compassionate look into the daily life of 14-year-old Autistic Emerson Rayne. This book is very much outside the normal genres that I read. However, I was absolutely captivated and felt I could really empathize with Emerson’s character. Even though her Disability made her obstacles more complicated it really showed that on a base level we all struggle with the same core desires. To be loved, to make our friends and family proud, and be the very best version of ourselves that we can be. The descriptions of how her Autism affected her really painted a different picture from what we generally understand about people who struggle with it. Her dynamic with Ryleigh absolutely melted my heart. It was also extremely real and raw to see her parents’ struggles to help her and how it affected their relationship and daily life. Overall, I cannot say enough good things about this book. It was eye opening, thoughtful, and the kind of book that really makes you think. The representation this book will bring is incredible. I cannot recommend this book enough.