Oh Brother

A heartwarming graphic novel memoir for middle grade readers a special book about neurodiversity and acceptance.You might be wondering who I am and why my brother doesn t seem to talk, puts his fingers in his ears and shakes his arms around Gina s little brother Rob is a huge fan of Vegemite and Disney movies, and he hates wearing shoes. He s also non-verbal with severe autism. There s a lot going on with Gina too: she starts high school, gets her first period, and her anxiety is making it tough to find new friends. Most people at school know her as the girl who doesn t shave, but she strikes up a friendship with Callie, the only one who makes an effort with her.But when Rob s meltdowns lead to him destroying Gina and Callie s school project, Gina is worried that the friendship will never recover This moving graphic novel explores Gina Chadderton s experiences growing up with her younger brother Rob. It is a story of friendship, family and of love - and most of all, it is a story intended for other siblings.Nuanced, empathetic, and beautifully unique. It s rare to see real-life experiences of autism reflected with such honesty, care and visual brilliance. - Abigail Balfe