A heartfelt book for anyone who has ever felt like they didn’t belong. Little Alien is always getting things wrong. She doesn’t understand anyone and no one seems to understand her either. School, family and simply everyday life seems so much harder for her but when she discoveres the Voynich manuscript through a TV documentary, all of that falls away and she becomes hyperfocused on interpretting this document that scientists have spent hundreds of years trying to crack. What follows is a tender tale, told in second person using the author’s experience with autism as Little Alien speaks to her younger self in an attempt to offer advice and reassurance that things will turn out ok.
I had such a soft spot for Little Alien as she spent her days alone in the library with a thirst for very specific knowledge. I felt hurt for her when teachers were cruel and when her parents misunderstood her. And I felt her joy when she managed to forge friendship and in moments where she felt understood and free to be herself. Alice Franklin has written something truly unique here but I am sure it will resonate with many. This was a joy to read even if it did make me angry at the educational system. I highly recommend.
Reviewed by Abi
Published on 13/02/25 by Quercus
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