THE SCIENCE OF BREAKABLE THINGS by Tae Keller

 

Natalie's interest in science probably comes from her mother, but lately concentrating even in science class has been tough. Home life isn't what it used to be. Natalie's mother has been shut in her room being "sick." Natalie knows that "sick" means sad, but she doesn't understand why her mother has removed herself from life with Natalie and her dad.

Being at school feels much more normal than being at home. Natalie's best friend Twig also helps make things feel normal. Even though hanging out with Twig can be exhausting, Natalie knows her friend cares. She hasn't confided in Twig about what's happening at home, but Twig doesn't always tell Natalie about everything that's happening in her life either.

Mr. Neely the science teacher has assigned a long-term project. Natalie can't figure out what scientific question she should ask so when Mr. Neely suggests she enter the Egg Drop Challenge as her project, she decides to give it a go. Twig agrees to join her, and to their surprise, Dari offers to join them on the project, too. The challenge of creating a device that will keep an egg from breaking when dropped from a three-story building gives Natalie something to focus on instead of the problems at home.

Author Tae Keller explores depression and how it changes the family dynamic. Keller's main character Natalie feels tremendous guilt about her mother's illness as she tries to navigate family and friends. THE SCIENCE OF BREAKABLE THINGS will educate readers about mental illness and its effects on family.