Something More
Book • 2023
by Jackie Khalilieh
Fifteen-year-old Jessie, a quirky loner obsessed with the nineties, is diagnosed as autistic just weeks before starting high school. Determined to make a fresh start and keep her diagnosis a secret, Jessie creates a list of goals that range from acquiring two distinct eyebrows to getting a magical first kiss and landing a spot in the school play. Within the halls of Holy Trinity High, she finds a world where things are no longer black and white and quickly learns that living in color is much more fun. But Jessie gets more than she bargained for when two very different boys steal her heart, forcing her to go off-script.
Something More
Book • 2023
by Jackie Khalilieh
Fifteen-year-old Jessie, a quirky loner obsessed with the nineties, is diagnosed as autistic just weeks before starting high school. Determined to make a fresh start and keep her diagnosis a secret, Jessie creates a list of goals that range from acquiring two distinct eyebrows to getting a magical first kiss and landing a spot in the school play. Within the halls of Holy Trinity High, she finds a world where things are no longer black and white and quickly learns that living in color is much more fun. But Jessie gets more than she bargained for when two very different boys steal her heart, forcing her to go off-script.
Bara says...
Ages 13+, but every child is different
The story centers on high school social dynamics, romantic interests, and the complexities of managing a neurodivergent diagnosis. It represents a classic coming-of-age experience suitable for early teens navigating identity and interpersonal relationships.
Content Safety Breakdown
Detailed breakdown of potentially concerning content
Sex & Nudity
The story centers on a teen romance involving a love triangle and the pursuit of a first kiss, which is typical for the young adult genre. There is mild romantic tension and emotional exploration of relationships appropriate for high school-age audiences.
Violence & Gore
The content focuses on social dynamics and personal growth within a high school setting, containing no physical conflict or violent imagery.
Profanity
The dialogue uses mild, age-appropriate colloquialisms such as 'cr*p' and 's*cks', which are used infrequently as natural phrasing for teenagers.
Alcohol, Drugs & Smoking
There may be very brief, incidental references to social situations typical of high school environments, but no focus on substance use as a plot point.
Frightening Scenes
The intensity is limited to the psychological pressure of the protagonist managing her secret diagnosis and the usual social anxieties of starting high school.
Key Insights
Quick summary and important considerations
A story about finding your place in a new school while learning that it is okay to be exactly who you are, even when you feel like you need to hide parts of yourself.
Detailed Analysis
In-depth insights for parents and educators
What Parents Need to Know
No violence, drug, or sexual content indicated in available information; the primary focus is on emotional development, school-related pressures, and romantic crushes.
What Kids Can Learn
Teens can gain insight into the autistic experience and the importance of embracing one's own identity despite societal pressures to fit in.
Key Topics Discussed
Why Parents Might Like It
It provides a grounded, contemporary look at the pressures facing modern teens, offering a supportive narrative for those dealing with invisible disabilities or transitioning to high school.
Positives & Learning
What makes this content valuable for children
Positive Messages
Emphasizes the necessity of authenticity and self-acceptance over conformity. Encourages personal growth through honesty about one’s internal challenges and lived reality.
Positive Role Models
The protagonist demonstrates courage by navigating a major life transition while balancing her academic, social, and personal health needs, providing a relatable example of teenage resilience.
Diverse Representations
Features an intersectional protagonist who is both Palestinian-Canadian and autistic, offering a nuanced look at identity that avoids monolithic tropes while granting the character full agency.
Educational Value
Provides social-emotional learning regarding neurodiversity, cultural intersectionality, and the importance of honest communication in high school friendships.
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