"He stayed only long enough for her to tell
him that yes, Frenchie was at school today.
He double-timed it into the boys' bathroom
to see if Frenchie had made a stop, then back
to his classroom for one last look. Empty
desk.
Topher took no chances. He dialed the school
office from the hall, as he turned in full circles,
looking up and down the corridor still hoping
to spot the boy. The secretary answered.
Topher informed her that they may have a
problem. He did not have eyes on Frenchie
Livernois."
Aurora, a loud and outspoken sixth grader, has been best friends with Frenchie Livernois since the minute they met three years ago. Frenchie lives next door, and is both autistic and nonverbal. Aurora gets him: his likes and dislikes, his responses to birds and animals, his love of order, and his aversion to being too close to people. They both love nature. Frenchie helps his friend take time to slow down and see what is around them by doing the same himself.
When Frenchie disappears one day before school, Aurora blames herself for messing up ... again! It is absolutely the worst thing that ever could have happened. The questions she has of herself are compelling and never-ending as people show up to help Aurora, her family, and Frenchie's mother search for him. There are few clues; the first day of the search turns up nothing. Now, Frenchie must spend a night alone in the dark outdoors. What must he be thinking?
The community that Leslie Connor builds is wonderful. The local residents know each other, and care about what happens to all. Aurora is a feisty young woman who loves adventure and speaking her mind. Frenchie does not get the same respect, as there are many who do not understand him. Too often, others talk about him rather than to him. Their parents support each other daily and provide a warm relationship for their children.
Aurora's voice adds humor to the telling. She proves herself to be attentive and vigilant in all of her dealings with Frenchie. Her love and concern for him is evident at every turn. Other perspectives in occasional chapters offer a third person voice for meaningful community members. A few of those chapters give Frenchie a voice as well, as he responds to what is happening.
Fast-paced and full of heart, this is a book that many middle grade readers will appreciate.
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