March 10, 2011
“This beautifully written young adult novel of compassion tells the story of Marcelo, a seventeen-year-old boy on the autism spectrum, who gets his first taste of the emotionally complicated and sometimes cruel aspects of human nature. Marcelo, who hears music no one else can—what he refers to as IM or inner music— has attended a school with others just like him who are sympathetic and understanding. But when his father insists he work at his law firm for the summer, Marcelo is thrust into a less friendly environment. During his time at the firm, Marcelo makes a shocking discovery when he finds a photo of a girl with half a face, which breaks through Marcelo’s protective walls, triggering unprecedented emotion. More than a coming-of-age story, this is a look at our often desensitized world through the eyes of a brilliant innocent. Both endearing and suspenseful, this is an unforgettable read.” —Kristy, Eagle Harbor Book Company, Bainbridge Island, WA