The CNP Summer Lit Club: What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum

  Biggest Takeaways: David Drucker and Kit Lowell are two very distinct, well-developed characters Julie Buxbaum's portrayal of a teen boy with autism is realistic and, at times, gut-wrenching Her portrayal of a grieving teen girl is also authentic and compelling The involvement and advocacy of the parents in the book is inspiring and affirming The characters' relationships with their parents is complex and believable – from Kit facing her mother's flaws, to David's mother sitting next to him and rocking alongside him as he processed a trauma There are stand-up-and-cheer moments and crying moments Ish Girl Notes: After the bleakness of watching all thirteen episodes of 13 Reasons Why for Episode 19, this book was a welcome counterbalance. It's optimism, the growth of the characters, the relationship that develops between Kit and David, the support that both characters receive from adults – these were all positive themes in the book. What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum Questions for What to Say Next by Julie Buxbaum Emily Roberson The Astonishing Color of After by X.R. Pan Join The Ish Girl's Weekly Email List Publisher's Weekly Interview with Julie Buxbaum Episode 18 | A Look at When We Collided by Emery Lord Episode 19 | 7 Things to Know Before Watching Season 2 of 13 Reasons Why