by Cat Patrick
Tornado Brain was a window into the experience and perspective of a student who is neurodivergent. Frankie does not always process the world in the same way others. And let’s be real, we all perceive the world differently. Some like to be left alone more than others. Some handle loud sounds better than others. Some experience emotions on a bigger level than others. We ALL are unique in how we view and relate to the world around us. Following Frankie as she searches to find her missing friend, really helped me grow aware of how to treat everyone I communicate with to be more respectful and considerate. I would recommend this book for everyone, no matter the age.
Things never seem to go as easily for thirteen-year-old Frankie as they do for her sister, Tess. Unlike Tess, Frankie is neurodivergent. In her case, that means she can’t stand to be touched, loud noises bother her, she’s easily distracted, she hates changes in her routine, and she has to go see a therapist while other kids get to hang out at the beach. It also means Frankie has trouble making friends. She did have one–Colette–but they’re not friends anymore. It’s complicated.
Then, just weeks before the end of seventh grade, Colette unexpectedly shows up at Frankie’s door. The next morning, Colette vanishes. Now, after losing Colette yet again, Frankie’s convinced that her former best friend left clues behind that only she can decipher, so she persuades her reluctant sister to help her unravel the mystery of Colette’s disappearance before it’s too late.
A powerful story of friendship, sisters, and forgiveness, Tornado Brain is an achingly honest portrait of a young girl trying to find space to be herself. Inspired by her own neurodiverse child, Cat Patrick writes with authenticity and sincerity in her depiction of Frankie in what is ultimately a love letter to neurodiverse children everywhere.