Being on the autism spectrum isn't abnormal or bad, it's unique and different. Family members may be a lot alike and share many things, but each member has their own identity, faith, and relationship to their faith. No one follows every rule all the time; we all make choices about exceptions we're comfortable with, and hopefully learn from choices that make us uncomfortable or hurt others. Not every person fits neatly into categories. Sometimes unexpected things happen, or things change, and that can be scary, but with patience and practice you can find ways to cope when they do.
Positive Role Models
a lot
Ellen is a good model of courage and perseverance. Change and overstimulation are difficult for her, but she develops strategies that help her cope and bravely opens herself to new experiences. She and her friends model teamwork, compassion, and communication. Ellen's parents are loving and supportive, and are great models for helping their autistic daughter learn and grow.
Educational Value
a lot
Words and phrases in Hebrew and Spanish, some translated, some with context clues. Some calming and coping strategies for people with autism. Culture, language, and famous landmarks. of Barcelona. Brief explanation and demonstration of Shabbat traditions. IEPs (Individualized Education Program) explained. Author's note explains autism and provides resources for more information.
Diverse Representations
a lot
Most characters are White. Ellen has autism, is Jewish, and has only ever had crushes on girls. Her best friend Laurel always wears a necklace with a cross charm, but they don't talk to each other about their faiths. One important character is Brown and describes themself as "Latin@," not being a boy or a girl, and attracted to all genders. Another important character is Asian and attracted to the same sex. Another character has ADHD. Ellen's father said he could have been attracted to a man or a woman but happened to fall in love with a woman, Ellen's mother.
Parents need to know that A.J. Sass' Ellen Outside the Lines is about 13-year-old Ellen, who learns about friendship, identity, and change on a class trip to Barcelona. There are some mild romantic dynamics but no content of concern. Important themes explored include coping with, or helping someone cope with, autism, gender, identity, sexual orientation, friendship, trust, and faith.
A really great book that happens to teach acceptance
This book is an empathy building book but more importantly it's just a really good read! A wide cast of characters, each diverse in their own ways. It's relatable for kids. While there are lots of wonderful messages about acceptance, it's done in a way that isn't "preachy." Highly recommend!
What's the Story?
ELLEN OUTSIDE THE LINES is about how 13-year-old Ellen learns to navigate changing friendships and the unexpected while on a class trip to Barcelona. Ellen has autism, and can sometimes get overwhelmed when there's too much stimulation. She's also most comfortable when she follows a routine and is able to make careful plans so she always knows what to expect. And she's excited about the trip to Barcelona, because it will finally be a chance to reconnect with her best friend Laurel by doing everything together. But when they get there, Ellen learns that the itinerary is going to be very different from what she expected. Worse still, she and Laurel are placed in different groups, which means Ellen will be spending most of her time with classmates she doesn't know very well. Change can be scary, but sometimes it can also bring just what you need the most.
This is a lovely, warm, heartfelt story brimming with positivity and inclusivity. In Ellen Outside the Lines, author A.J. Sass skillfully balances gently guiding readers and characters through tough situations and strange new ideas with humor and authenticity, making the characters believable and relatable as they explore issues like friendship, differences, gender, crushes, change, and more.
It's not all sunshine and roses, though. Mistakes are made and things go wrong, adding to how easily big kids and tweens will relate to the characters. And there are appropriate consequences when called for. Barcelona comes colorfully alive, and readers will have fun figuring out the clues in the scavenger hunt and exploring landmarks along with the characters. The ending is upbeat, touching, and sweetly satisfying.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about character strengths in Ellen Outside the Lines. How do Ellen and her friends model teamwork, compassion, and communication?
Why are diverse representations important in books, movies, games, etc.? What do we gain from seeing ourselves reflected in the media, or by seeing people who are different from us?
Do you have, or do you know someone who has autism? What did you know about it before you read this book? What did you learn?
Research shows a connection between kids' healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in media. That's why we've added a new "Diverse Representations" section to our reviews that will be rolling out on an ongoing basis. You can help us help kids by
suggesting a diversity update.
Common Sense Media's unbiased ratings are created by expert reviewers and aren't influenced by the product's creators or by any of our funders, affiliates, or partners.
By Andrea Beach
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
