Forget Me Not

Description

Calliope June has Tourette syndrome. Sometimes she can't control the noises that come out of her mouth, or even her body language. When she and her mother move yet again, she tries to hide her TS. But soon the kids in her class realize she's different. Only her neighbor, who is also the class president, sees her as she truly is-a quirky kid, and a good friend. But is he brave enough to take their friendship public? As Callie navigates school, she must also face her mother's new relationship and the fact that she might be moving again-just as she's starting to make friends and finally accept her differences. This story of being true to yourself will speak to a wide audience.

Ellie Terry is a poet, writer, and reader. Other facts about her: She loves brownies. She is a horrible singer. She has Tourette syndrome. Ellie Terry lives in Utah with her husband and their three children. Forget Me Not is her first novel. Visit her online at ellieterry.com

"Terry, who has Tourette syndrome herself, offers enormous insight into an often-misunderstood condition, writing in verse for Calliope's chapters and prose for Jinsong's. Her poetic explorations of Calliope's anxiety and Jinsong's moral struggles are honest and moving." --Publishers Weekly "This heartfelt, multivoice story with a meaningful message about friendship and acceptance is perfect for kids who appreciate realistic, character driven stories, such as Rebecca Stead's Goodbye Stranger (2015)." --Booklist "Written in a patchwork of prose poetry and free verse, Terry's narrative deftly represents the reality of TS in its fullness. It works to deconstruct common misconceptions, such as that those who have TS have a propensity to swear, and sheds light on the raw confusion and the frightening nature of a physical experience that is utterly unpredictable . . . This exploration of Calli's neurological disorder and her struggle to find her place will stay in the hearts and minds of readers for a long time...." --School Library Journal "Terry's debut novel is a rare treat--a beautiful story of middle grade friendship, crushes, accepting differences, and how to deal with the school bullies. Terry's use of figurative language and symbolism is magical. It will offer lessons in tolerance, acceptance, and kindness toward those different than themselves." --School Library Connection