Read. Write. Listen. Create.

This book tells a coming of age tale that is exactly what everyone needs to read to get a different perspective and for wheelchair users, it’s finally a chance to see yourself in a story.

I think all disabilities need to be represented more in the media and this book is a chance to see a wheelchair user front and center as a main character. The narrator, Effie, has cerebral palsy and a lot on her mind when it comes to finding the right college.

“By the time Effie Galanos starts her senior year, it feels as though she’s already been thinking about college applications for an eternity—after all, finding a college that will be a perfect fit and be accessible enough for Effie to navigate in her wheelchair presents a ton of considerations that her friends don’t have to worry about.”

She has her mind set on a certain college, but she soon finds out that there could be a better fit somewhere else. I gave this book a 4 out of 5 stars. I loved how the author talked about the little nuances of using a wheelchair throughout the book, reminding the reader that it’s a constant thought in Effie’s mind. While she can walk for short distances, she still needs to plan how she’ll navigate places she’s never been before.

I can’t even count how many times someone has said “got a license for that thing?” as they see me coming in my wheelchair. It’s usually older people who think they’re hilarious and think that they came up with that joke on their own. Someone says that to Effie in the book and it reminds me that I’m not the only person this happens to. I need to come up with a good comeback!

When Effie is getting ready for homecoming she talks about how it’s hard to feel pretty when you’re always sitting down. Clothes don’t look the same on you or fall the right way on your body. She compares herself to the other girls who aren’t in wheelchairs and it’s something I’ve done too. It’s reassuring to know everyone feels that way.

I liked the reiteration of Effie planning for college and everything she has to consider. You sometimes need to overthink and plan so far ahead when using a wheelchair. It’s not always easy and you can’t just wing it. The writing felt like middle grade sometimes, but it is categorized as a young adult novel. Her friendship with Wilder was my favorite and I loved how he was always willing to help her.

I listened to the book read by Ali Stroker, who is an actress, author, and singer. She’s also the first actor to use a wheelchair and appear on a Broadway stage. She has a discussion with the author, Claire Forrest, at the end of the book which was a fun listen. I highly recommend this book. If you’re looking for a new perspective or a chance to finally see disability representation in the media, give it a read or listen to the audiobook!