A Kind of Spark
Summary:
Addie is an eleven-year-old autistic girl who loves learning as much as possible about subjects that interest her; one of her prized possessions is a thesaurus given to her by her older sister Keedie, who is also autistic. When Addie learns about how women in the 16th century, including those from her own village in Scotland, were accused of being witches and often killed because of this, she is horrified, distressed, and outraged. Addie starts a campaign for a local memorial to the women who were persecuted and killed because of how other people perceived them. Her campaign brings her own experience, and the experience of other autistic children, into view as Addie deeply understands what it feels like to be discriminated against and bullied by others because you seem to be different.
Edited by: Dublin City University
Comment:
This novel brings together the oppression and persecution experienced by women centuries ago and the marginalisation and exclusion of those perceived to be different in contemporary society. Written by self-described neurodivergent author Elle McNicholl, there is a complex and unsentimental portrayal of autism through the character of Addie and her older sister Keedie. Addie’s moving campaign to have women who have been outcast and silenced by society centuries ago is sparked by a keenly-felt sense of injustice that comes from lived experience. The book contains much helpful factual information, elucidating terms. Female friendships and relationships are key throughout and a huge source of comfort and solidarity for the characters.