SUPERSTAR by Mandy Davis

 

Lester lives for science, especially stars and space. His father was an astronaut. He died when his NASA mission ship exploded upon re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. Lester thinks about him often, but his mother is upset when anything reminds her of him.

Ever since his father's death, Lester has been homeschooled. Now his mother is getting a job, and Lester will be attending public school for the first time. He is nervous and worried because he isn't used to being around people except for his mother. She tells him that if he follows the rules everything will be fine. The only thing is Lester isn't sure what the rules are.

After some unpleasant ups and downs and some run-ins with a kid named Ricky, Lester is evaluated and diagnosed as having autism spectrum disorder. With the help of the school staff, the rules are made clear for Lester and learning how to deal with school becomes easier, that is except when it comes to Ricky.

Author Mandy Davis captures what it's like as a neurodiverse individual. Readers will relate to Lester as he deals with new experiences, learning about friendship, and adjusting to life's changes. SUPERSTAR is perfect for upper elementary and middle school collections.