Twelve-year-old Catherine has spent much of her time writing rules to help her younger brother David through life. David, who has autism, requires a lot of attention from Catherine and their parents.
Catherine is a talented artist who is starting to crave some attention of her own. A new girl has moved in next door, and Catherine hopes that they will become best friends. Meanwhile, Catherine meets a boy her age at her brother's appointments and explores a whole new world of communication and adventure with him. Will she be able to maintain both friendships while protecting her brother? When she is forced to make hard choices, what rules will Catherine decide to follow in her own life?
This beautifully-written, heart-wrenching book is sure to engage students in discussions about needs, responsibilities, social rules and choices we make regarding friendship. Based on the author's experiences within her own family, this story will also help students come to a better understanding of the people around them. Activities at the end of the book, such as "A New Set of Rules," can lead to meaningful writing opportunities in the classroom.
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