The Horn Book Guide

OLDER FICTION

Schmitt, Adam P.

Speechless

293 pp. | Candlewick | November, 2018 | Trade ISBN 978-1-5362-0092-8 $16.99

(2) YA Thirteen-year-old Jimmy's cousin, Patrick, has unexpectedly died. Jimmy must deliver a brief eulogy but doesn’t know what to say: he really didn't like Patrick, who ruined every landmark experience in Jimmy's life with his constant presence, out-of-control behavior, and escalating temper. Through flashbacks, Jimmy begins to recognize the complex dynamics that form his family. It's a huge step toward growing up, made believable through a thoughtful and intelligent protagonist.

Reviewer: Betty Carter | Horn Book Magazine Issue: January, 2019